Andre Russell, Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, and Akeal Hosein have opted out of the West Indies T20I squad for their upcoming tour of Sri Lanka due to personal reasons. Evin Lewis returns for the three-match T20I series in Dambulla after last playing a T20I during the 2022 World Cup. He has also earned a spot in the ODI leg of the tour.
Brandon King is back in the T20I side after recovering from a side injury that kept him out of the T20 World Cup and CPL 2024. In light of Russell’s absence, Terrance Hinds and Shamar Springer have received their first international call-ups after impressive performances in CPL 2024. Hinds shone as a death bowler for Trinbago Knight Riders, while Springer was the leading wicket-taker for Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, claiming 12 wickets at an economy rate of 9.39.
Rovman Powell continues to lead the T20I side, with Roston Chase serving as vice-captain. Coach Daren Sammy noted the tour provides a chance to test the team’s depth amid the absence of senior players. Johnson Charles misses out, while Andre Fletcher is named as the reserve opener alongside Lewis and King.
In a noteworthy development, 17-year-old Jewel Andrew has joined the ODI squad, potentially making him the youngest West Indian ODI debutant. Despite limited experience, Andrew’s talent has caught the eye of legends like Viv Richards. Shai Hope remains captain of the ODI team, with Alzarri Joseph as vice-captain. The ODI series will feature matches from October 13 to 26, showcasing emerging talent alongside established players.
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