Cricket West Indies has unveiled an ambitious high-performance training initiative aimed at sharpening the regional side’s One-Day International (ODI) ambitions, with a select group of senior players set to gather in Antigua later this month for an intensive 10-day preparation camp.
Scheduled for May 21-31 at Coolidge Cricket Ground, the programme marks the official beginning of the West Indies’ build-up toward an important ODI period that starts with next month’s home series against Sri Lanka in Jamaica and stretches toward the larger objective of securing automatic qualification for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
The camp also signals another major step in Head Coach Daren Sammy’s long-term effort to reshape the identity and consistency of the “Men in Maroon” in white-ball cricket.
More than a training camp
Cricket West Indies officials have positioned the initiative as far more than a routine pre-series gathering.
Across 10 demanding days, players will move through a detailed programme featuring technical development, tactical refinement, physical conditioning, match simulations, and team-building exercises designed to strengthen execution under pressure.
The camp will also integrate the expertise of CWI’s wider high-performance department, including coaching personnel, medical staff, sports scientists, and strength and conditioning specialists.
One of the major storylines surrounding the camp is the arrival of newly appointed fast-bowling consultant Ottis Gibson, who will officially begin his role with the West Indies setup during the Antigua sessions.
Bascombe outlines long-term vision
Cricket West Indies Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe stressed that the initiative forms part of a much broader strategic vision for the regional side.
“This camp represents far more than preparation for a single series,” Bascombe said.
“It is a strategic investment in the identity, culture, and consistency we want this team to build over the next 18 months. Every session is designed to strengthen our white-ball systems, sharpen execution under pressure, and help position the West Indies for automatic qualification to the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.”
Young talent included in development push
Among the most intriguing selections is emerging West Indies Under-19 prospect Vitel Lawes, who has been invited to participate as part of CWI’s ongoing player development pathway.
The inclusion highlights the organization’s intention to accelerate the integration of promising young talent into the senior environment.
Pathway coach Nikita Miller will also be attached to the camp, where he is expected to continue mentoring Lawes while assisting with the senior team’s spin-bowling programme.
IPL commitments affect availability
Several leading West Indies players currently involved in the Indian Premier League will miss the Antigua camp because of franchise obligations.
Cricket West Indies confirmed that the final squad for the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka national cricket team, which begins on June 3, will be announced at a later date.
The training group features an experienced nucleus led by ODI captain Shai Hope alongside players such as Roston Chase, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales, and Shamar Joseph.
Also named in the camp squad are Jewel Andrew, Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Khary Pierre, and Shamar Springer.
Focus turns toward Jamaica series
With the ODI series against Sri Lanka fast approaching, the Antigua camp is expected to serve as the foundation for a pivotal period in West Indies cricket.
For Sammy and his staff, the objective extends well beyond immediate results. The coming months are viewed as critical in establishing the structure, discipline, and clarity needed to restore the regional side’s standing in 50-over cricket ahead of the 2027 World Cup qualification race.
