West Indies name new look squad for T20I series against Nepal, Akeal Hosein to lead

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The West Indies have unveiled a new-look squad for their upcoming three-match T20I series against Nepal in Sharjah, with left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein handed the captaincy. The series, starting on September 27, will mark the first time Hosein leads the senior men’s side across formats.

The 15-member squad carries a strong mix of youth and experience, with as many as five uncapped players earning maiden call-ups. Among them are top-order batter Ackeem Auguste, batting allrounder Navin Bidaisee, leg-spinner Zishan Motara, left-arm fast bowler Ramon Simmonds, and wicketkeeper-batter Amir Jangoo.

Another exciting inclusion is Karima Gore, who has already featured in international cricket for the United States but is yet to represent West Indies. Gore’s CPL 2025 performances with Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, where he notched up 219 runs in 11 matches, played a big role in his selection. His ability to contribute in pressure situations has made him one of the most talked-about prospects in the Caribbean cricket circuit.

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With several frontline players, including regular captain Shai Hope, rested for the series, the selectors have entrusted Hosein to marshal a relatively inexperienced group. Alongside him, the squad includes experienced allrounders Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers, and Fabian Allen, while pacer Obed McCoy adds further international exposure.

Hosein, who has been one of West Indies’ most consistent performers in limited-overs cricket, will shoulder the responsibility of leadership for the first time. Known for his economical spells and sharp cricketing brain, the 31-year-old will look to make a smooth transition into the captain’s role.

The Sharjah series will serve as a platform for West Indies to test their bench strength and experiment with new combinations ahead of a busy international calendar. For the younger players, this is a golden opportunity to impress the selectors and stake a claim for future assignments.

Nepal, meanwhile, will be eager to challenge the Caribbean side after gaining valuable experience during West Indies A’s tour in 2024. Despite losing that five-match T20 series, Nepal pulled off two victories, proving their growing stature in the format. With the matches being played at the spin-friendly Sharjah surface, the contests are expected to be competitive.

The three T20Is will take place on September 27, 29, and 30, all at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium. For Hosein and his men, the series is not just about winning but also about shaping the next generation of West Indies cricketers. If the newcomers rise to the occasion and the senior players provide the right guidance, West Indies could unearth several promising talents from this tour.

Akeal Hosein (captain), Fabian Allen, Jewel Andrew, Ackeem Auguste, Navin Bidaisee, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Karima Gore, Jason Holder, Amir Jangoo, Kyle Mayers, Obed McCoy, Zishan Motara, Ramon Simmonds, Shamar Springer

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