ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) has confirmed a revised 15-man squad for the upcoming CG United One-Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan, following a late injury setback on the eve of the opening match.
The three-match showdown, scheduled for August 8, 10, and 12 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad and Tobago, marks the final leg of the “Full Ah Energy” home season — and represents a pivotal opportunity for the Caribbean side to reset after recent white-ball struggles.
Aiming for home dominance and World Cup momentum
Originally targeting a fourth consecutive ODI series victory on home soil after wins over England, Bangladesh, and in the UK earlier this year, the West Indies now face a sterner challenge. Pakistan arrive as a higher-ranked opponent, and for Head Coach Daren Sammy, the mission is clear: victory here is about more than pride.
“Pakistan presents a different challenge, but our focus remains on securing automatic qualification for 2027,” Sammy said. “These games are vital for gaining ranking points and building momentum. Maintaining a winning mentality and team cohesion is key, not just for now, but for long-term success.”
The series also serves as an early measuring stick for the squad’s readiness to compete against top-tier opponents ahead of the next ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup cycle.
Layne steps in as Forde withdraws
The squad announcement was swiftly followed by an enforced change. Barbados pacer Johann Layne has replaced fellow countryman Matthew Forde, who suffered a dislocated left shoulder while attempting a catch during Wednesday’s training session.
Layne, who has 13 wickets in 12 List A matches, was part of the West Indies Under-19 squad at the 2022 ICC Under-19 World Cup and recently earned his first senior Test call-up for the home series against Australia in July. His inclusion adds depth to the pace attack alongside Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales.
The stakes: Ending a drought against Pakistan
This series carries extra weight. The West Indies have not beaten Pakistan in an ODI since 2019 and are also eager to snap a run of consecutive white-ball losses to both Australia and Pakistan.
For Captain Shai Hope, the objective is as much about performance as it is about results. The failure to qualify for the 2023 Cricket World Cup remains a sore memory, and he knows consistency is essential to avoid a repeat in 2027.
Final West Indies ODI squad vs Pakistan: Shai Hope (Captain), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Johann Layne, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd.
Play begins Friday at 2:00 p.m. at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, with live coverage on MCTV’s ESPN channel. With Pakistan’s depth and recent dominance, and the West Indies’ hunger to reassert themselves at home, the series opener promises intensity from the first ball.
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