ST JOHN’S, Antigua — The West Indies have turned to all-rounders Matthew Forde and Shamar Springer to fortify their bowling attack ahead of the upcoming five-match T20 International series against New Zealand, which begins on Wednesday.
The Barbadian duo are the only new faces in the 15-member squad that swept Bangladesh 3-0 last week, and their inclusion signals Cricket West Indies’ (CWI) intent to sustain momentum while reinforcing a bowling unit that has been hampered by injuries.
Comeback trail for Forde, opportunity for Springer
For Forde, the call-up marks a welcome return following months of rehabilitation from a shoulder injury sustained during the summer. The young seamer, widely regarded for his balance of pace and control, has now cleared all fitness and return-to-play protocols.
Springer, meanwhile, earns his recall as the selectors look to replenish their pace reserves after Ramon Simmons and Jediah Blades were both ruled out due to injury.
The Windies’ attack will also be missing Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph, leaving the selectors to rely heavily on Forde’s accuracy and Springer’s aggression to carry the load in seamer-friendly conditions.
Motie to focus on technical adjustments
In a notable development, left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie has been left out of the squad following a dip in form attributed to minor technical issues with his bowling action.
With conditions in New Zealand expected to favor seam and swing, CWI confirmed that Motie will instead work with specialist coaches through a partnership with the Royals Sports Group, owners of the Paarl Royals franchise in South Africa.
This focused training block will take place ahead of his participation in December’s SA20 League, where the aim will be to restore his rhythm and confidence in the lead-up to the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.
Mind games: West Indies add mental performance coach
Beyond physical preparation, CWI is also taking a holistic approach to player development. The board announced the appointment of clinical psychologist Dr. Krisnan Hurdle as mental skills and performance coach, beginning with the New Zealand tour.
The move, according to Miles Bascombe, CWI’s Director of Cricket, reflects a growing emphasis on the psychological dimension of elite performance.
“The addition of a mental skills and performance coach reflects our commitment to developing the complete cricketer,” Bascombe said.
“At the elite level, success is as much about mindset and composure as it is about technical ability. Strengthening this area ensures our players receive the necessary non-technical support to manage pressure and maintain focus.”
Balancing preparation and progress
With New Zealand’s challenging conditions on the horizon, the changes underscore a twofold approach by West Indies management: reinforcing the team’s fast-bowling depth while investing in the mental resilience required to excel abroad.
As the Caribbean side continues its rebuild toward the next T20 World Cup, these strategic moves highlight a renewed commitment to depth, discipline, and development — both on and off the field.
