Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled its 15-man squad for the upcoming ODI sequence in opposition to India, with some notable inclusions and exclusions grabbing the eye of cricket followers worldwide.

Probably the most eye-catching comeback within the squad is star batter Shimron Hetmyer, who makes a long-awaited return to the 50-over lineup. Hetmyer’s choice comes as a reward for his excellent performances within the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL), the place he showcased his batting prowess and proved to be in prime type.

Having final performed an ODI for the West Indies again in July 2021 in opposition to Australia, the left-hander’s recall is a testomony to his dedication and arduous work to regain his spot within the limited-overs aspect.

Alongside Hetmyer, the selectors have additionally opted to incorporate quick bowler Oshane Thomas, who is predicted to bolster the West Indies’ bowling assault. Moreover, the return of Jayden Seales, Yannic Caria and Gudakesh Motie from accidents gives added depth and choices for the crew.

Nonetheless, the absence of Nicholas Pooran and Jason Holder from the 15-player squad has raised some eyebrows. Each gamers are unavailable for the sequence attributable to their commitments with franchise leagues, and their expertise will undoubtedly be missed.

Nonetheless, below the management of Shai Hope, the Males in Maroon are gearing as much as put up a tricky struggle in opposition to India, who’re presently within the highlight as they put together to host the ICC Males’s Cricket World Cup later this 12 months.

Additionally READ: BCCI pronounces India’s ODI squad for West Indies tour

The three-match ODI sequence will kick off in Barbados on Thursday, July 27, and can undoubtedly be an important alternative for India to fine-tune their preparations forward of the worldwide cricketing occasion.

For the West Indies, this sequence holds specific significance after they didn’t qualify for the 50-over World Cup this 12 months. Their lack of ability to complete within the prime two in the course of the latest ICC Males’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier match in Zimbabwe meant they missed out on an opportunity to compete within the prestigious occasion.

Meanwhiles, Windies chief selector Desmond Haynes is trying ahead to the ODI sequence in opposition to India and believes Hetmyer and Thomas will carry out nicely.

“We welcome Oshane and Shimron again into the group. Each have performed on the worldwide stage earlier than, with some success, and we imagine they’ll match nicely into the set-up,” Haynes mentioned in his official assertion.

“Oshane brings tempo and is a possible wicket-taker with the brand new ball. Shimron’s type of batting will provide so much particularly within the center stage of the innings and he’s additionally a possible ‘finisher’.”

West Indies squad for India ODIs:

Shai Hope (c), Rovman Powell (vc), Alick Athanaze, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Dominic Drakes, Shimron Hetmyer, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Kevin Sinclair, Oshane Thomas.