West Indies call-up spinner Sinclair for New Zealand ODIs

West Indies have named offspinner Kevin Sinclair in their 14-man squad for the three-match One-Day International series against New Zealand as they look to boost their hopes of qualifying for the 2023 World Cup.

The matches will take place at Kensington Oval in Barbados on August 17, 19 and 21. These three encounters are West Indies' last remaining three fixtures in the Super League which will decide automatic qualifying spots for the 2023 World Cup in India.

Only the top-seven sides along with hosts India qualify automatically with those outside having to go through a qualifying competition. The Men in Maroon are currently placed at No. 6 on the points table, having won only eight of their 21 matches.

Sinclair made his international debut in T20I cricket last year against Sri Lanka and has so far played only six games. The 22-year-old hasn't played for West Indies since June 2021.

"As we stated before, we are looking to broaden the pool of players and we have decided to give Sinclair an opportunity in the CG United ODI Series against New Zealand," lead selector Desmond Haynes said. 

"He has been in the system for a while and was also in the 'A Team' to play against Bangladesh 'A' in the upcoming series. We believe with his calm approach and skills he will do well in the matches against New Zealand."

Shimron Hetmyer, who recently made a comeback to the T20I set-up, has also been included in the squad. The left-hander hasn't played an ODI since July 2021. Meanwhile, Rovman Powell and Romario Shepherd have been left out.

Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie has also been named in the squad but will have to undergo a fitness assessment on a finger injury sustained against India last month. Meanwhile, all-rounder Roston Chase is unavailable due to injury, while Fabien Allen is out due to personal reasons.

West Indies are currently involved in a three-match T20I series against New Zealand and are already trailing 1-0 in the series, with the last two encounters to be played on August 12 and 14.

Squad: Nicholas Pooran (c), Shai Hope (vc), Shamarh Brooks, Keacy Carty, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Jayden Seales, Kevin Sinclair.

(With inputs from AFP)