The West Indies cricket team has unveiled its squads for the upcoming T20I and ODI series against Sri Lanka, which will begin on October 13. However, the team will be missing several key players, including Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Akeal Hosein and Shimron Hetmyer, who opted out of the tour. In his absence, the West Indies have called up some non-international players, offering them a chance to prove themselves on the international stage.

Terrance Hinds and Shamar Springer, both impressive players in the 2024 Caribbean Premier League (CPL), have earned their places in the T20I team. Hinds, a right-arm fast bowler, has taken eight wickets in eight CPL games with a bowling average of 30.43. Springer, another right-arm pacer, has been more successful, taking 12 wickets in nine matches at an average of 18. His inclusion adds new energy to the team, which is looking to test its depth in the absence of senior players.

Speaking about the team selection, West Indies head coach Darren Sammy acknowledged the absence of key players due to their need for rest and rehabilitation, but expressed confidence in the younger talents.

Also Read: 3 IPL stars to lose their ‘uncapped player’ status in IND vs BAN T20I

Sammy commented: “The tour of Sri Lanka gives us the opportunity to test our depth and evaluate players in different situations, especially with a number of senior players who have been left out for various reasons including the need for rest and injury rehabilitation. “We are confident in the team’s ability to compete strongly against Sri Lanka.”

The T20I team will be led by Rovman Powell, with Roston Chase as his deputy. Other experienced players such as Fabian Allen, Alzarri Joseph and Evin Lewis have also been included, ensuring a balance between youth and experience.

In the ODI team, Shai Hope will captain the team, with Joseph as vice-captain. The most notable inclusion is 17-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman Jewel Andrew, who earns her first West Indies call-up. Andrew has only played three List A games but has made a strong impression, averaging 55 with 165 runs.

Sammy highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent, saying: “This tour offers a valuable opportunity to evaluate strategies and provide opportunities to emerging talent. “We are excited to see young players like Jewel Andrew, who has earned his place as an exciting prospect for the future.”

The series will feature three T20Is on October 13, 15 and 17 in Dambulla, followed by three ODIs in Kandy on October 20, 23 and 26.

West Indies T20I Team: Rovman Powell (c), Roston Chase (vc), Fabian Allen, Alick Athanaze, Andre Fletcher, Terrance Hinds, Alzarri Joseph, Shai Hope, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Pastor Romario, Shamar Springer.

West Indies ODI Team: Shai Hope (c), Alzarri Joseph (vc), Jewel Andrew, Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Pastor Romario, Hayden Walsh Jr.