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West Indies Cricket on Wednesday, October 30 announced their squad for the upcoming ODI series against England, starting October 31 in Antigua. In one of the noticeable moves, all-rounder Shimron Hetmyer makes his return into the ODI squad, replacing opener Alick Athanaze. Moreover, this is the only change in the side from the squad that recently travelled to Sri Lanka.
The Windies all-rounder missed the Sri Lanka tour citing personal reasons. He was last seen playing in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024, where he finished as the fifth highest run-scorer. Notably, the three-match series will begin with two ODIs at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on October 31 and November 2, before concluding at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on November 6.
Shimron Hetmyer replaces Alick Athanaze; Jewel Andrew retains his place
Speaking of the 15-man squad, while Hetmyer is the only change, youngster Jewel Andrew has retained his place after making his international debut during West Indies 2-1 series win against Sri Lanka. Whereas Shai Hope will continue to lead the side in the three-match ODI series.
Speaking after the squad announcement, West Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy said, “Playing against England always provides a new challenge and reignites a rivalry that the players and the people of the Caribbean are eager for. Somehow, we West Indies always find a way to raise our game when we face England.”
"This rivalry goes back for decades, and after defeating them last year at home for the first time in a long time in an ODI series, we're ready to face the challenge of a strong England squad again. It's always special to play at home, where the local support brings energy and passion to every match. With our sights set on qualifying for the ICC Men's World Cup in 2027, we've selected a balanced squad that will no doubt push and compete with one of the best teams in the world," Sammy further added as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
West Indies squad for ODI series against England
Shai Hope (C), Jewel Andrew, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Hayden Walsh Jr
