• Home
  • Cricket News
  • Brandon King Dropped Veteran Opener Returns As Wi Announce Squad For Nz Odi Series

Brandon King dropped, veteran opener returns as WI announce squad for NZ ODI series

Kaushik Kashyap

West Indies. [Source - windiescricket.com]West Indies. [Source - windiescricket.com]

In a significant development, Cricket West Indies has announced a 15-member squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, scheduled from November 16 to 22. With the Black Caps presenting a high-profile challenge, the Men in Maroon will see this series as a golden opportunity to secure valuable ranking points and strengthen their push toward automatic qualification for the 2027 ICC Men’s 50-over World Cup.

Shai Hope will once again lead a squad balancing promise and experience. Alongside familiar performers such as Alick Athanaze, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase and Romario Shepherd, the selectors have assembled a group designed to adapt to New Zealand’s different conditions and sustained competitiveness across all three matches.

Notable selections and key returns

One of the biggest takeaways from this squad is the comeback of left-handed opener John Campbell to the 50-over setup. His return has come on the back of a strong Test outing in India recently and consistent domestic form showcased during last year’s domestic List A tournament back home.

Campbell’s inclusion arrives at a time when the team is seeking renewed solidity at the top of the order, and he replaces Brandon King, who has been left out of the ODI side following an extended stretch of poor form.

Another important aspect of the squad is the makeup of the pace attack. Matthew Forde, who recently returned to action in the T20Is following injury rehabilitation, where the visitors ultimately lost the series, has retained his place for the ODI squad as well.

His presence is complemented by other names like Johann Layne and Shamar Springer, both entrusted with adding depth and energy. Their roles become even more vital with frontline quicks like Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Ramon Simmonds and Jediah Blades all unavailable due to injuries.

West Indies’ 15-men squad for the ODI series vs New Zealand

Shai Hope (captain), Alick Athanaze, Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Johann Layne, Khary Pierre, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer.