Follow UsOne of Rajasthan Royals’ marquee retainees, Shimron Hetmyer, has been dropped from the West Indies’ squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan. It comes as a big blow for the left-hander’s World Cup aspirations, as this is one of the crucial series before the global event.
However, RCB’s all-rounder Romario Shepherd marks a return to the ODI scheme of things. There’s no place for Alzarri Joseph, as the Windies pacer was part of the squad for the three-match Test series against Australia earlier in the year.
"Pakistan presents a different test and challenge as we continue our push for automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup," said head coach Daren Sammy. "While qualifying is our immediate goal, maintaining a winning mentality and team cohesion is essential for long-term success.
"The upcoming matches against teams like Pakistan, who are ranked higher, provide crucial opportunities to earn valuable ranking points to improve our standing ahead of the World Cup."
23-year-old Jediah Blades, who made his debut against Bangladesh, retains his place in the side alongside the 18-year-old Jewel Andrew. While Andrew didn’t have the best of outings, the selectors rate him quite highly.
The three-match ODI series kicks off on August 8 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad.
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, Romario Shepherd