John Campbell returns as West Indies name 15-member squad for the ODI series against New Zealand

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West Indies have confirmed their 15-member squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting November 16 in Christchurch. The announcement comes just a day after the hosts secured a 3-1 victory in the T20I leg, leaving the Caribbean side eager to reset and regroup ahead of the 50-over challenge. With several fresh faces and a notable comeback, the visitors will look to revive their fortunes against a confident Black Caps unit.

In one of the biggest developments, opener John Campbell has earned a recall to the ODI squad after a six-year gap. Campbell replaces Brandon King, who endured a lean patch during the recent Bangladesh series, managing scores of 44, 0 and 18 in a 2-1 defeat. His underwhelming T20I run—with four single-digit scores across his last five matches—further influenced the selection panel’s decision to try alternative options at the top.

Campbell’s return has been fuelled by his impressive domestic and red-ball form. The left-hander smashed a memorable century in the second Test against India in Delhi last month, reinforcing the calibre that once made him a bright prospect for the Windies. His strong campaign in the previous Super50 Cup, where he amassed 278 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 102.20, also worked in his favour. Remarkably, none of the tournament’s top ten run-scorers operated at a quicker scoring rate, highlighting Campbell’s ability to set the tempo early.

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The ODI squad also features two debutants—Johann Layne and Shamar Springer—both of whom have been rewarded for their consistent performances in domestic cricket. Layne, a promising fast bowler, and Springer, a seam-bowling all-rounder, add depth to a pace-heavy unit that has been impacted by multiple injuries.

Speedster Matthew Forde also returns after recovering from a shoulder dislocation that had kept him out of action before the New Zealand T20Is. With the likes of Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph and Jediah Blades unavailable due to injuries, the selectors have opted for a mix of youth and experience to reinforce their bowling resources.

Meanwhile, spinners Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie, along with left-arm quick Ramon Simmonds, miss out after featuring in the Bangladesh series. Their exclusion reflects the team management’s focus on bolstering the seam attack in conditions expected to favour pace and bounce.

After a disappointing T20I finish, West Indies will enter the ODI series determined to turn their campaign around. With leadership from captain Shai Hope, the return of Campbell, and an infusion of emerging talent, the visitors believe they possess the right blend to challenge New Zealand’s home dominance.

Shai Hope (c), 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, Shamar Springer

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