West Indies T20I and ODI Squads Revamped for Sri Lanka Tour
West Indies' T20I and ODI squads for their upcoming tour of Sri Lanka have undergone significant changes, with several key players opting out and promising youngsters earning call-ups.
In the T20I squad, Andre Russell, Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, and Akeal Hosein have all withdrawn for personal reasons. Opening batter Evin Lewis, who last played a T20I during the 2022 World Cup, makes a welcome return. Brandon King also returns after recovering from injury.
To fill the void left by Russell, West Indies have called up Trinbago Knight Riders teammate Terrance Hinds and Antigua and Barbuda Falcons' Shamar Springer. Both all-rounders impressed in the recent CPL season.
Rovman Powell will continue to lead the T20I side, with Roston Chase as his deputy. Johnson Charles, who had a strong CPL campaign, missed the cut, while Andre Fletcher will serve as the reserve opener.
In the ODI squad, 17-year-old Jewel Andrew has earned a surprise call-up. He could become the youngest West Indian to debut in ODI cricket. Andrew has shown promise in his limited appearances so far.
Shai Hope will continue to captain the ODI team, with Alzarri Joseph as his deputy. Matthew Forde, who missed out on the T20I squad, has been included.
The ODI squad also features two specialist spinners in Hayden Walsh Jr. and Gudakesh Motie. Batters Alick Athanaze and Keacy Carty retain their spots.
West Indies' white-ball tour of Sri Lanka will begin on October 13 and will run until October 26.
Tags: #WestIndiesCricket, #T20I, #ODI, #SriLankaTour, #EvinLewis
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