West Indies T20I squad for Australia series announced; Two players receive maiden call-ups

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has named a 16-player squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against Australia, which begins on July 20. Shai Hope will continue to lead the T20I side, while wicketkeeper-batter Jewel Andrew and left-arm fast bowler Jediah Blades have received their first call-up to the format.

The Windies squad includes several experienced players, such as Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Rovman Powell, and Shimron Hetmyer. Andre Russell is also part of the setup but will be available only for the first two matches, as he is set to retire from international cricket in front of his home fans.

Jewel Andrew and Jediah Blades Receive Maiden Call-Up to West Indies T20I Squad

Jewel Andrew and Jediah Blades have been named as the two uncapped players in the squad. He was also the leading run-getter for his team in the 2024 Under-19 World Cup, amassing 207 runs at an average of 69 and a strike rate of 109.52.

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The 18-year-old wicketkeeper-batter has a T20 average of 25.37 and a strike rate of 114.68. Andrew could be a valuable addition with the 2026 T20 World Cup in spin-friendly conditions on the horizon.

Jediah Blades made his ODI debut against Bangladesh in 2024 but recorded the worst economy rate ever on debut. However, the left-arm fast bowler impressed with his wicket-taking ability in the powerplay during the inaugural West Indies Breakout League.

Winning the T20 World Cup in 2026 Is the Goal - Daren Sammy

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy said that their long-term strategy is focused on preparing well for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. He added that the squad has maintained continuity from the recent series and will continue refining their playing style.

“Our goals and strategic plans are aligned to winning the T20 World Cup in 2026. We have continuity in the squad from the previous series and as a unit we will continue to fine tune our style and brand ahead of the World Cup,” Sammy said.

Following a 0-3 defeat in the Test series, West Indies will take on Australia in the five-match T20I series from July 20 to 28. The first two games will be played at Sabina Park in Kingston, while the final three encounters will take place at Warner Park in Basseterre.

We Were on the Wrong End of the Results - Daren Sammy

Daren Sammy admitted that the West Indies struggled in the recent home T20I series but expressed confidence in changing fortunes against Australia. He emphasized the importance of regaining their winning form at home and building momentum.

“Our previous two T20 series at home we were on the wrong end of the results but starting against Australia, we want to regain our form at home as we build momentum into next year’s World Cup with our exciting and dynamic group of players.”

West Indies squad for Australia T20Is: Shai Hope (c), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd.

Also read: "Was Ravindra Jadeja playing his 1st match?" All-rounder torn apart in Pakistan after Lord's Test