Picture Credit: X
The upcoming ODI series of West Indies Vs Pakistan, is seen by the former as a chance to push for an automatic qualification for the ODI World Cup 2027. After conceding a 2-1 defeat in the T20I series against Pakistan, the Men in Maroon aims to secure a fourth consecutive home ODI series victory. The three ODIs are scheduled to be played on August 8, 10 and 12 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Tarouba. The hosts led by captain Shai Hope reflects a blend of youth and seasoned talent with the inclusion of experienced players like Roston Chase, Evin Lewis, and Gudakesh Motie, alongside all-rounders like Matthew Forde and Sherfane Rutherford.
All-rounder Romario Shepherd made his return in the 15-member West Indies squad for the ODI series against Pakistan, while speedster Alzarri Joseph has been rested as part of a strategic workload management plan. The 30-year-old will play an ODI match in this series after missing the recent series against England and Ireland earlier this year due to his commitments in the rescheduled leg of Indian Premier League. Shepherd, known for his hard-hitting batting and right-arm fast bowling, last played an ODI in December 2024 against Bangladesh, where he showcased his value with a quickfire 48 off 28 balls and two wickets.
Shimron Hetmyer excluded despite performing well in Major League Cricket
Despite having an impressive outing with the bat while playing for Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket, Shimron Hetmyer failed to make the cut. Hetmyer slammed 340 runs in 8 matches, scoring three 50+ scores. While speaking ahead of the series, West Indies head coach Darren Sammy highlighted that for the currently ranked 10th team in the ICC ODI rankings West Indies, facing a higher-ranked Pakistan side, offers a chance to earn valuable ranking points. “Pakistan presents a different test and challenge as we continue our push for automatic qualification,” Sammy said.
Despite the loss in the recent T20I series, West Indies showed flashes of brilliance, with Jason Holder’s four wickets and last-ball heroics in the second T20I keeping the series alive. They will rely on Shepherd’s all-round contributions and the batting firepower of Hope, King, and Lewis to counter Pakistan’s potent bowling attack, which includes Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah.
West Indies squad for the ODI series against Pakistan
Shai Hope (captain), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, and Romario Shepherd.
