Follow UsCricket West Indies have announced a strong 15-member squad for the ICC World Cup Qualifiers set to be held in Zimbabwe from June 18. The eight teams will compete to secure two remaining spots in the World Cup set to take place in India later this year.
Ahead of the Qualifiers, Windies will lock horns against United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a three-match ODI series in Sharjah on June 5, 7 and 9 as part of their preparations.
The team management have recalled allrounder Keemo Paul and left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie, who last featured in ODIs against India in Trinidad in July.
“Paul is a three-dimensional player, who can bowl the new ball effectively, he’s dynamic in the outfield and can also make vital runs. He is now fully recovered from injury, and with his skill set, we see him as a potential match-winner for us," said Desmond Haynes, the lead selector.
"Motie was excellent in the Test matches in Zimbabwe earlier this year, where he took 19 wickets, and we anticipate similar conditions for the qualifiers. We believe he will again relish the chance to bowl in those conditions. He is also a capable batsman and good in the outfield."
“For the matches against the UAE in Sharjah, this presents a chance for some other players who are not in the squad for the qualifiers to get an opportunity at the international level as we look to expose more players,” he concluded.
The Board has also allowed the players plying their trade in the Indian Premier League to spend some time at home with families before rekindling with the squad in Zimbabwe.
Squad for ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers:
Shai Hope (Captain), Rovman Powell (vice-captain), Shamarh Brooks, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Nicholas Pooran, Romario Shepherd
Squad for UAE series:
Shai Hope (Captain), Brandon King (vice-captain), Alick Athanaze, Shamarh Brooks, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Dominic Drakes, Kavem Hodge, Akeem Jordan, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Raymon Reifer, Odean Smith, Devon Thomas