West Indies Prepare for ODI Series Against England
West Indies are gearing up for an exciting three-match ODI series against England, starting October 31 in Antigua. The team has made a significant change to its squad, recalling hard-hitting middle-order batter Shimron Hetmyer, who replaces opener Alick Athanaze. Hetmyer, a crucial player in West Indies’ previous 2-1 victory over England in December 2023, returns after missing the recent tour to Sri Lanka due to personal reasons. His recent performance in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024, where he finished as the fifth-highest run-scorer, has boosted his confidence heading into this series.
Despite the absence of Hetmyer in the last series, the West Indies team struggled against Sri Lanka, suffering a 2-1 series defeat. As they prepare for the England series on home soil, the players are eager to improve their performance. Shai Hope continues to lead the team as captain, while 17-year-old Jewel Andrew retains his place in the squad after making his debut during the Sri Lanka series.
Daren Sammy Emphasizes Historic Rivalry
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy is looking forward to the challenge of facing England, highlighting the historic rivalry between the two cricketing nations. According to Sammy, playing England always brings a fresh challenge and rekindles a rivalry that the players and Caribbean people look forward to. He believes that the West Indies consistently rise to the occasion when playing against England, which adds excitement to the series.
Sammy emphasized the importance of the series for West Indies’ long-term goals, particularly to qualify for the ICC Men’s World Cup in 2027. He acknowledged the significance of playing at home, where local support adds energy and passion to the matches. We’re prepared to take on a formidable England team once more after defeating them at home in an ODI series last year for the first time in a long time, he continued.
Upcoming Matches and Squad Dynamics
Two One-Day Internationals (ODIs) will begin the series on October 31 and November 2 at Antigua’s Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, with a final game at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on November 6. England, who have already arrived in the Caribbean, will be led by Liam Livingstone, stepping in for Jos Buttler, who is still recovering from a calf injury.
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West Indies’ squad is a blend of experienced players and young talent. Alongside Hetmyer, the team features seasoned cricketers like Alzarri Joseph and Brandon King, who bring valuable experience to the lineup. Additionally, young prospects like Matthew Forde and Shamar Joseph are expected to contribute significantly to the team’s performance. Evin Lewis, who made a stunning ODI comeback against Sri Lanka with an unbeaten 102 off 61 balls, is also set to play a pivotal role in the upcoming series.
West Indies ODI squad: Shai Hope (capt), Shimron Hetmyer, Jewel Andrew, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Hayden Walsh Jr, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford.
