The co-hosts of the upcoming mega-event T20 World Cup in June 2024, the West Indies, have unveiled their squad of 15 players.
Rovman Powell is set to take the reins as captain for the upcoming big tournament, aiming to lead the two-time world champions back to glory. After their unexpected stumble in the 2022 edition, where they failed to reach the Super-12 stage, losing to Scotland and Ireland, the West Indies are eager to make a strong statement this time around.
In a surprising move, fast bowler Shamar Joseph finds himself included in the 15-man squad. Despite his limited experience in T20 cricket, Joseph’s recent test debut performance in Australia caught the selectors’ attention. Also making a comeback is batter Shimron Hetmyer, who missed out on the previous tournament due to travel mishaps.
The batting order will be spearheaded by Johnson Charles, Brandon King, and Shai Hope. Charles brings in the most experience, while King and Hope provide stability in the lineup.
The middle order boasts an array of firepower with Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Shimron Hetmyer, Captain Powell, Jason Holder, Sherfane Rutherford, and Romario Shepherd. Many of these players have been in stellar form in the ongoing Indian Premier League, making them formidable opponents for any team.
“The last time I wore maroon colours was lifting up this trophy as a player. So it’s obviously inspirational,” coach Darren Sammy, who captained West Indies to two T20 World Cup titles, told reporters on Friday.
“The captain, Rovman Powell, I see a lot of myself as a leader in him as well… I think we’ve come up with the best combination to help us win the World Cup.” – he further said.
When it comes to spinning the ball, Akeal Hossain and Gudakesh Motie are the go-to guys, both masters of the left-arm orthodox style. Shamar Joseph, who made quite a splash with his explosive batting against the formidable Aussies earlier this year, has earned his first-ever spot in a World Cup squad. This talented Guyanese cricketer will join forces with vice-captain Alzarri Joseph to lead the pace attack for the Maroon Men.
West Indies squad for T20 World Cup 2024:
Rovman Powell (c), Alzarri Joseph (vc), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Nicholas Pooran, Shai Hope, Andre Russell, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford
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