West Indies Rest Key Players for T20I Series Against South Africa

The West Indies have announced their 15-player squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa, providing an opportunity for last-minute preparations ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

West Indies Announce Squad for T20 World Cup

Brandon King will take on the captaincy role as regular skipper Rovman Powell, along with top-order performers Shai Hope and Nicholas Pooran, are set to rest. Their absence is aimed at gaining valuable rest prior to the T20 World Cup, following their lengthy stints at the IPL.

Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph and key batter Sherfane Rutherford will continue with their IPL teams for the playoffs and will join the West Indies squad only if their teams do not reach the IPL final.

Chief selector Desmond Haynes believes the three-match series against South Africa will provide the players with opportunities to stake their claim for a place in the West Indies side for their T20 World Cup opener against Papua New Guinea on June 2.

“These are among the last competitive T20 International matches before the World Cup,” Haynes said. “Players have the opportunity to fine-tune their skills and ensure they are as prepared as they can be for the World Cup, whether they are in the final squad or reserve pool.”

West Indies coach Daren Sammy said the games will give his side the chance to work on their best combinations ahead of the ninth edition of the T20 World Cup.

“We have not played together as a team since the Australia series, but we just completed a very high-intensity training camp in Antigua,” Sammy said. “Now we have the chance to integrate some of our players returning from the IPL and build some momentum as a group going into the World Cup.”

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West Indies Squad:

Brandon King (c), Roston Chase, Fabian Allen, Alick Athanaze, Johnson Charles, Andre Fletcher, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Kyle Mayers, Obed McCoy, Gudakesh Motie, Romario Shepherd, Hayden Walsh Jr.

Series Schedule:

First T20I, Jamaica, May 23
Second T20I, Jamaica, May 25
Third T20I, Jamaica, May 26