West Indies announce ODI squad for Pakistan sequence, eye 2027 World Cup qualification | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: West Indies have named a 15-member squad for their upcoming three-match ODI sequence towards Pakistan, set to happen in Trinidad. Led by common skipper Shai Hope, the squad blends expertise with youthful vitality, that includes a number of promising names the Windies have backed in latest occasions.A key inclusion is the return of dynamic all-rounder Romario Shepherd, who re-enters the ODI setup for the primary time since that includes towards Bangladesh final 12 months.Teenage wicketkeeper-batter Jewel Andrew, who made his ODI debut towards Sri Lanka in 2023, retains his spot after showing within the latest sequence towards England. The 18-12 months-previous continues to impress and stays a key half of the staff’s plans shifting ahead.Left-arm pacer Jediah Blades, who debuted within the 2024 Bangladesh sequence, has additionally been recalled. Amir Jangoo, who made headlines with a century on his ODI debut versus Bangladesh, retains his place after enjoying towards Ireland earlier this 12 months.West Indies enter the sequence on the again of a 2-1 T20I defeat at dwelling. Head coach Daren Sammy views the sequence as important for West Indies’ push in the direction of automated qualification for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.“Pakistan presents a different test and challenge as we continue our push for automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup,” Sammy mentioned. “While qualifying is our immediate goal, maintaining a winning mentality and team cohesion is essential for long-term success. The upcoming matches against teams like Pakistan, who are ranked higher, provide crucial opportunities to earn valuable ranking points to improve our standing ahead of the World Cup.”West Indies are at present tenth within the ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings, whereas Pakistan are ranked fourth, behind India, New Zealand, and Australia.West Indies ODI squad vs Pakistan:Shai Hope (c), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd.