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Key Points

West Indies have rested Alzarri Joseph to manage his workload, bringing Romario Shepherd back for the Pakistan ODIs. The squad remains largely unchanged after recent victories over England and Bangladesh. Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the series as key for World Cup qualification and ranking points. The first ODI starts on August 8 at Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

Key Points: Romario Shepherd Returns as West Indies Rest Alzarri Joseph for Pakistan ODIs

  • Romario Shepherd returns to bolster West Indies' ODI squad
  • Alzarri Joseph rested for workload management
  • West Indies eye fourth consecutive home ODI series win
  • Pakistan series crucial for 2027 World Cup qualification
2 min read

Joseph's rest extended as Shepherd returns to West Indies squad for ODIs against Pakistan

West Indies extend Alzarri Joseph’s rest while Romario Shepherd rejoins the squad for the ODI series against Pakistan, aiming for a fourth straight home win.

"Pakistan presents a different test as we push for 2027 World Cup qualification – Daren Sammy"

St John’s, Aug 6

Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph’s rest has been extended to manage his workload, while all-rounder Romario Shepherd makes a return to West Indies’ ODI squad for the three-match ODI series against Pakistan, starting at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Thursday.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) said the core of 15-member squad remains unchanged from recent victories over England, Bangladesh and on tour in the United Kingdom, as they bid for a fourth consecutive home ODI series win.

Following the series opener on August 8, the next two matches will be played on August 10 and 12. West Indies had recently lost T20I series to Pakistan by 2-1, with all games held at the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, Florida. It was also the seventh successive time Pakistan won a T20I series against the West Indies.

The series against Pakistan is the part of the build-up towards the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup. Head coach Daren Sammy said the series against Pakistan would be another chance to strengthen their ODI unit and continue the momentum held from the last 18 months.

“Pakistan presents a different test and challenge as we continue our push for automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup. While qualifying is our immediate goal, maintaining a winning mentality and team cohesion is essential for long-term success.”

“The upcoming matches against teams like Pakistan, who are ranked higher, provide crucial opportunities to earn valuable ranking points to improve our standing ahead of the World Cup,” he said.

West Indies squad: Shai Hope (Captain), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales and Romario Shepherd.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
Shepherd's return adds much-needed balance to WI squad. As an Indian cricket fan, I enjoy watching these competitive series - it's great preparation before our team faces Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup. Hope WI can break Pakistan's T20I dominance this time!
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Aditya G
Interesting squad selection. But where's Nicholas Pooran? He's been in great form in T20 leagues. West Indies need all their firepower against a strong Pakistan side. BCCI should take notes - we need to start preparing for 2027 WC too with proper rotation policy.
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Sarah B
As someone who follows both WI and Indian cricket closely, I appreciate Sammy's focus on long-term planning. But honestly, WI's batting looks thin without Joseph's lower-order hitting. Pakistan's bowling attack might dominate if top order fails.
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Karthik V
Good to see cricket being played in West Indies again! After watching IPL, I miss seeing international matches there. Hope the pitches offer good contest between bat and ball. Our Indian team should tour WI more often - great experience for young players.

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