Key players return as West Indies name squads for the T20I series against England and Ireland

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In a strategic move aimed at balancing experience and youth, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled their T20I squads for the upcoming series against England and Ireland. The headline news sees veteran all-rounders returning to the T20 setup, while another star batter will be sitting out the England leg after requesting rest post a taxing IPL 2025 season.

West Indies are set to face England in a three-match T20I series following their ODI clash at The Oval. Andre Russell and Jason Holder have been brought back into the squad for this high-profile series. Russell, who was last seen in action during the England tour in November before suffering an ankle injury, will bring explosive power and all-round experience. Meanwhile, Holder returns for the first time since February 2024 after missing the T20 World Cup due to injury.

The inclusion of these seasoned campaigners signals West Indies’ intent to field a strong side against a formidable English lineup. However, Nicholas Pooran, who was a central figure during the IPL, has opted for rest and won’t be part of the squad for the England leg.

For the first time in the T20 format, Shai Hope will lead the Caribbean side, taking over the reins from Rovman Powell. His elevation marks a new direction for West Indies cricket, as they aim to reshape their white-ball identity with Hope’s calm leadership at the helm.

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Following the England series, West Indies will head to Ireland for another three-match T20I showdown. But the team will look considerably different, with several senior players and coaching staff, including Russell, being rested for that leg. Keacy Carty has been drafted into the Ireland-bound squad to replace Brandon King, who has been granted leave. Additionally, newly appointed Test skipper Roston Chase will exit the squad after the England games to prepare for the upcoming home Test battle against Australia.

West Indies squad for England: Shai Hope (captain), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd

West Indies squad for Ireland: Shai Hope (captain), Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Matthew Forde, Jyd Goolie, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd

Also WATCH: Brydon Carse removes Shai Hope with a gravity-defying catch in first ENG vs WI ODI