KINGSTON, Jamaica — Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled a 16-man squad for the highly anticipated five-match T20 International series against Australia, set to take place from July 20–28 at Sabina Park in Kingston and Warner Park in St. Kitts.
With a strategic blend of youth and experience, the team is poised to challenge one of the sport’s elite sides, while continuing preparations for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
Bright new stars: Andrew and Blades join the fold
The selection includes two exciting debutants, both of whom have made waves on the domestic scene and now get their first taste of senior international action.
Jewel Andrew, an 18-year-old batting prodigy and reserve wicketkeeper, has earned praise for his maturity, aggressive stroke play, and impressive technique against spin. Regarded as one of the brightest emerging stars in Caribbean cricket, Andrew’s inclusion signals a strong investment in youth.
Joining him is Jediah Blades, a left-arm seamer who made his international debut against Bangladesh in early 2024. Blades was a standout in the inaugural West Indies Breakout League, where his knack for striking during the powerplay impressed selectors.
Core leadership remains steady
At the helm, Shai Hope continues in his role as captain, supported by a cadre of seasoned campaigners including Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Rovman Powell, and Andre Russell, who is set to make his final international appearances during the first two T20Is in Kingston.
Veterans like Alzarri Joseph, Shimron Hetmyer, and Romario Shepherd provide further depth to a squad designed to be both competitive now and forward-looking for the future.
Sammy sets sights on T20 World Cup 2026
Speaking on the squad’s composition and direction, Head Coach Daren Sammy reaffirmed that all moves are aligned with long-term strategic goals, particularly the 2026 T20 World Cup.
“Our goals and strategic plans are aligned to winning the T20 World Cup in 2026,” Sammy declared.
“We have continuity in the squad from the previous series and as a unit we will continue to fine-tune our style and brand ahead of the World Cup.”
Beyond building a winning formula, Sammy emphasized the need to reclaim dominance on home soil, after recent setbacks in regional T20 series.
“Our previous two T20 series at home we were on the wrong end of the results,” he noted.
“But starting against Australia, we want to regain our form at home as we build momentum into next year’s World Cup with our exciting and dynamic group of players.”
West Indies Squad for T20I Series vs Australia: Shai Hope (Captain), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd.
Team management: Head Coach: Daren Sammy, Team Manager: Rawl Lewis, Assistant Coach (Batting): Floyd Reifer, Assistant Coach (Bowling): Ravi Rampaul, Assistant Coach (Fielding): Rayon Griffith, Physiotherapist: Dr. Denis Byam, Strength & Conditioning Coach: Ronald Rogers, Massage Therapist: Darc Browne, Team Analyst: Avenesh Seetaram, Media & Content Officer: Jerome Foster.
Match Schedule – West Indies vs Australia T20I Series
- 1st T20I: July 20 – Sabina Park, Jamaica
- 2nd T20I: July 22 – Sabina Park, Jamaica
- 3rd T20I: July 25 – Warner Park, St. Kitts
- 4th T20I: July 26 – Warner Park, St. Kitts
- 5th T20I: July 28 – Warner Park, St. Kitts
All matches begin at 7:00 PM local time.
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