For the first time in 18 years, the West Indies cricket team will travel to Pakistan for a Test series, marking a historic chapter in cricketing ties between the two nations.
The two-match series, scheduled from January 17 to 29, 2025, at the Multan Cricket Stadium, represents the climactic finale of the ongoing World Test Championship cycle.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) unveiled the much-anticipated squad from St. John’s, Antigua, amid heightened expectations from fans and experts alike. With a mix of promising young talent and seasoned campaigners, the team aims to make a significant statement on the global stage.
Emerging star Amir Jangoo selected for first Test cap
The squad announcement saw a notable inclusion: Amir Jangoo, the prolific left-handed batter who stunned the cricketing world with a breath-taking ODI century on debut against Bangladesh. Jangoo’s maiden Test call-up is a testament to his remarkable consistency in regional cricket and adeptness against spin bowling, attributes that make him a valuable addition to the West Indies line-up.
Also making a return to the squad is Gudakesh Motie, a crafty spinner who missed the recent series against Bangladesh. Head coach Andre Coley lauded their inclusions, stating, “Motie rejoins the squad to bolster the spin attack, while Jangoo’s selection comes on the back of his consistency across formats in regional cricket, as well as his demonstrated high level of competency against spin bowling.”
Gudakesh Motie bolsters spin arsenal for series
Coley emphasized the importance of leveraging the lessons learned throughout 2024 as the team approaches this critical series. “For the Test series against Pakistan in January 2025, the focus is on building on what we have done well and transforming the learnings from 2024 into tangible results,” he said.
The absence of star pacer Alzarri Joseph, due to prior engagements, and the ongoing rehabilitation of Shamar Joseph are notable gaps in the squad. However, the return of seasoned players like Kemar Roach and promising pacers like Jayden Seales provides a strong bowling foundation.
Coley focuses on turning 2024 lessons into results
The series offers a pivotal opportunity for the West Indies to showcase their development under Andre Coley’s stewardship. With the final matches of the World Test Championship at stake, the squad’s ability to execute strategies and adapt to challenging subcontinental conditions will be under the spotlight.
The team departs the Caribbean on January 2 and will arrive in Islamabad on January 6, allowing ample time to acclimate before the opening Test in Multan.
Squad and support team details
The full West Indies Test squad includes: Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Joshua Da Silva (Vice-Captain), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Tevin Imlach, Amir Jangoo, Mikyle Louis, Gudakesh Motie, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Kevin Sinclair, Jayden Seales, and Jomel Warrican.
Supporting the team is an experienced Team Management Unit (TMU), led by Head coach Andre Coley and featuring specialists in bowling, fielding, and batting to ensure the squad is fully prepared for the rigors of Test cricket in Pakistan.
As the West Indies prepare for this historic tour, the cricketing fraternity waits with bated breath to see how the team will rise to the challenge and cement their place in Test cricket’s storied history.
