Indies have unveiled their squad for the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka starting later this week, with Ackeem Auguste, Jewel Andrew and Shamar Springer returning to the national setup as a fresh phase begins following the T20 World Cup.
The trio comes in for Johnson Charles, Quentin Sampson and Jayden Seales-all of whom were part of the World Cup squad who represented the West Indies this year. At the same time, experienced fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been omitted from the squad in a workload management strategy to ensure long-term fitness and availability for future assignments.
Twenty-two-year-old Ackeem Auguste returns after nine appearances in the shortest format for NetWest Cricket you the West Indies. Young wicketkeeper-batter Jewel Andrew, one of the brightest talents in the country, is also called up. The 19-year-old already has five T20 internationals under his belt as well and has teased fans with a couple of cameos facing serious, world-class bowling attacks.
The third player to rejoin the squad is all-rounder Shamar Springer. Springer, who has played six T20Is in the past, provides a good balance with the bat and ball.
Fast bowler Shamar Joseph had earlier withdrawn from the ODI squad for personal reasons but there was good news on that front too. The pacer is due to join the team ahead of the T20I series.
Head coach Daren Sammy said the upcoming fixtures have significance, as they represent a chance to harness some of the spirit and togetherness witnessed in their recent T20 World Cup showpiece. He was adamant that the group were committed and told the players they should use this tour to show people what West Indies cricket means to them.
June 11, 13 and 14 – Three-match T20I series vs Sri Lanka at Sabina Park, Jamaica This came after a rain-hit ODI series, which Sri Lanka won 1-0 by winning the first match, with the other two games washed out.
After the T20Is, attention turns to red-ball cricket for the two teams as they play a two-Test series in Antigua.