As the West Indies prepare for the decisive final leg of their five-match T20I series against England, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has made two crucial changes to the squad. With the series at stake, the team faces challenges after suffering two consecutive losses in Barbados, leaving them trailing 0-2.
Cricket West Indies announce Andre Russell’s replacement
In hopes of turning the tide in their favour, CWI announced the replacement of all-rounder Andre Russell and the return of pacer Alzarri Joseph for the upcoming games in Saint Lucia.
Russell, a key all-rounder for West Indies, has been ruled out of the remainder of the series due to a left ankle sprain he sustained in the opening T20I at the Kensington Oval. Russell’s absence is a significant blow for the team as he brings both batting firepower and valuable experience to the middle order. Stepping in for Russell is Shamar Springer, an all-rounder who recently played two T20I matches against Sri Lanka and will aim to make an impact on his return to the squad.
In addition to this change, fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, who missed the first two games due to a suspension, is set to rejoin the team. Joseph will replace Shamar Joseph and bolster the bowling attack, which struggled to contain England batters in the first two matches. Joseph’s return is expected to provide the pace and wicket-taking ability the West Indies need to challenge England’s strong batting lineup.
West Indies looking for a comeback in the 5-match series against England
The West Indies will need a determined comeback effort after England won the opening T20I by 8 wickets, followed by a convincing 7-wicket victory in the second game. Both matches took place over the past weekend, with England showing their dominance and taking full control of the series. The final three matches are scheduled to be played at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in Saint Lucia, where West Indies will rely on the support of their home crowd as they fight to keep the series alive.
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For the West Indies, the remaining matches provide a critical opportunity to rebuild momentum and seek redemption. With Rovman Powell leading the squad, they will look to lean on the experience of players like Nicholas Pooran, Evin Lewis and Brandon King to produce the runs needed to put England under pressure. The addition of Springer brings depth to the all-rounder options, while the return of Joseph strengthens their bowling, especially in key middle and death overs where the team needs tighter control and breakthroughs.
West Indies’ T20I squad for remaining series against England
Rovman Powell (c), Brandon King, Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, Terrance Hinds, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Roston Chase, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Forde, Shamar Springer