Alzarri rested as Auguste, Andrew and Springer recalled to WI squad for SL T20Is
St, Johns, June 9 Young batters Ackeem Auguste and Jewel Andrew, along with all-rounder Shamar Springer, have been called up to the West Indies' T20I squad for three-match series against Sri Lanka in Jamaica, while fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been rested as a part of workload management.
Shamar Joseph, who returned home ahead of the third ODI against the Sri Lankans due to personal reasons, is expected to return ahead of the series on June 9.
"Exciting young batting talents Ackeem Auguste and Jewel Andrew, along with all-rounder Shamar Springer, are the three changes to the squad that featured at the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, where the Men in Maroon fell just short of reaching the semi-finals.
"Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph was not considered for selection as part of workload management plans and will continue his training and preparation ahead of the two-match test series being held in Antigua," CWI said in a statement.
This series marks the West Indies' first T20 assignment since the team's strong showing in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in February and March and forms an important part of long-term preparations for the 2028 edition in Australia and New Zealand.
Head Coach Daren Sammy believes the series offers an excellent opportunity for the players to entertain home supporters while showcasing an exciting brand of cricket.
"This series is an important one for us as it's our first since the World Cup in India, where the team played with passion, fight and the togetherness that West Indies cricket is built on. Our focus now is to build on those foundations, continue growing as a team and make our fans proud with the way we compete against Sri Lanka," Sammy said.
The series in Jamaica commences on June 11, will be followed by two Tests in Antigua. Sri Lanka won the ODI series 1-0 with the final two matches washed out.
West Indies squad: Shai Hope (c), Jewel Andrew, Ackeem Auguste, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer
Series schedule:
First T20I: June 11, Sabina Park, Jamaica
Second T20I: June 13, Sabina Park, Jamaica
Third T20I: June 14, Sabina Park, Jamaica
— IANS
Reader Comments
I don't know, man... resting Alzarri for a home series against Sri Lanka seems like a gamble. They barely made the semis in the World Cup. But I guess they're thinking long-term for the 2028 World Cup. Still, fan expectations are high in the Caribbean. Let's see how Ackeem Auguste handles international pressure.
Honestly, West Indies cricket needs this kind of bold thinking. They've been underwhelming for years, but the semi-final run showed their potential. Giving chances to young batters like Andrew and Auguste is smart—they're the future. And Hat's off to Daren Sammy for building a positive team culture. 🇮🇳🇱🇰 (pun unintended, but it's a series between two subcontinental teams)
Interesting squad selection from CWI. Alzarri Joseph's pace was crucial in the World Cup—hope he doesn't get rusty during the rest. But bringing in Shamar Springer is a good call; his all-round skills can add depth. Sri Lanka will be tough, they've got a decent T20 side. Looking forward to the contests! 🏏
Can we talk about how Shamar Joseph had to go home for personal reasons? Hope everything is okay with him. The squad still looks strong with Shai Hope leading—he's been consistent. These matches are also about preparing for the Tests, so I understand resting Alzarri. Just hope the fans in Jamaica get some entertaining cricket.
As a neutral observer, I think this is a solid move by
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