Left-arm spinner Khary Pierre has been called up to the West Indies T20 International squad, stepping in to reinforce the team’s bowling arsenal ahead of their three-match series against Bangladesh.
Pierre’s inclusion, announced by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Thursday, comes as a strategic adjustment following injuries to promising pacers Shamar Joseph and Jediah Blades, both ruled out of the short-format series.
Injuries disrupt bowling plans
Joseph, who was expected to feature prominently in the series, experienced shoulder discomfort during the first training session prior to the opening ODI against Bangladesh last Saturday. Meanwhile, Blades sustained a stress fracture to his lower back, forcing his withdrawal and immediate return home for rehabilitation.
The dual setbacks prompted selectors to look toward the experienced Trinidadian spinner, whose recent outings in the two-match Test series in India and the just-concluded ODI series against Bangladesh demonstrated both form and consistency.
Pierre’s return adds balance
Pierre, a familiar presence in the regional setup, brings variety and control to the attack—qualities that have often served West Indies well in subcontinental conditions. His versatility in limited-overs cricket provides captain Shai Hope with additional options in the middle overs, particularly on slower surfaces.
CWI’s statement noted Pierre’s inclusion as part of a proactive effort to maintain “depth and balance in the squad” amid fitness challenges in the pace department.
The Full West Indies Squad: Shai Hope (Captain), Alick Athanaze, Ackeem Auguste, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Amir Jangoo, Khary Pierre, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, and Ramon Simmonds.
