The West Indies’ focus has shifted to the test series after failing to qualify for this year’s Cricket World Cup, marking the first time the twice champions have missed out on the prestigious tournament. With a renewed determination, the team aims to make a strong statement in the ICC Test Match Championship.
Lead Selector Desmond Haynes expressed his thoughts on the upcoming series, stating, “Going into the series, we know it will be a challenge as we start the new cycle of the ICC Test Match Championship. We want to build and improve and strive to move up the ladder.”
Haynes highlighted the impressive performances of McKenzie and Athanaze during the recent ‘A’ team tour of Bangladesh, emphasizing their mature batting approach and commendable scores. Consequently, the selectors believe that these two young players deserve a chance to prove themselves at the highest level.
In the bowling department, the absence of left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie due to injury has created an opportunity for Cornwall and Warrican to showcase their skills.
Haynes expressed confidence in the two experienced players, stating, “They have both played in test matches before and are capable of doing the job.” Cornwall last appeared in a test match in November 2021, while Warrican missed the South Africa tour in February.
Unfortunately, Jayden Seales and Kyle Mayers have been left out of the squad due to injury concerns. However, the team has named Tevin Imlach and Akeem Jordan as the traveling reserves for the first test, scheduled to take place in Dominica on July 12. The second test will be played in Trinidad, starting from July 20.
The West Indies’ tour of the Caribbean will also mark the beginning of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-2025 for both teams. After the test series, they will engage in an ODI series, commencing on July 27, followed by a five-match T20 series.
The inclusion of promising young talents and the return of experienced players has added depth and versatility to the West Indies squad. Fans eagerly await the contest between West Indies and India, as both teams embark on their journey in the ICC World Test Championship, striving to secure a strong position in the highly competitive tournament.
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West Indies Squad for Test Series Against India:
Kraigg Brathwaite (capt), Jermaine Blackwood, Alick Athanaze, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva, Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Alzarri Joseph, Kirk McKenzie, Raymon Reifer, Kemar Roach, Jomel Warrican