White-ball captain Shai Hope makes his return to the red-ball format, alongside Keacy Carty, as Cricket West Indies (CWI) announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming home Test series against Australia.
Guyanese batter Kevlon Anderson and white-ball opener Brandon King have received their maiden Test call-ups, while John Campbell returns to the fold following an impressive domestic season with the bat. Anderson Phillip also returns, having impressed with a five-wicket haul for West Indies A against South Africa A.
Notably, wicketkeeper Joshua Da Silva remains on the sidelines, and veteran pacer Kemar Roach has been omitted from the squad.
These changes come on the back of West Indies’ most recent Test series against Pakistan, as the team looks to refresh and rebuild key areas of the squad.
“I’m excited about the inclusion of young prospect Kevlon Anderson, who’s earned his place after consistent performances in our domestic competitions to help provide stability at the top. The return of Shai Hope is welcomed, given his white-ball consistency. Brandon King’s inclusion addresses a role we’ve identified as needing special attention to elevate our Test team in the global rankings,” said head coach Daren Sammy.
The fairly new fast-bowling attack will be led by Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales, and rising star Shamar Joseph. They will be supported by Johann Layne—aged 21—who has claimed 63 wickets in just 17 first-class matches.
Spin duties will be shared by skipper Roston Chase and his deputy, Jomel Warrican.
The three-match series begins on 25 June at Kensington Oval, Barbados, and will see the two sides compete for the prestigious Sir Frank Worrell Trophy. Notably, the series includes a day-night Test, to be held at Sabina Park in Jamaica.
West Indies Test Squad vs Australia:
Roston Chase (Captain), Jomel Warrican (Vice-Captain), Kevlon Anderson, Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Mikyle Louis, Anderson Phillip, Jayden Seales.
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