Cricket West Indies have announced a 15-member squad for their first Test tour of India since 2018, marking their inaugural away series in the new World Test Championship cycle. A stiff challenge awaits the Men in Maroon, with two fixtures scheduled from October 2nd to 14th. At a glance, however, the selection signals competitive intent.
The squad features recalls for Guyanese opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Dominican left-hander Alick Athanaze. Both batsmen are expected to reinforce the Windies’ fragile top order, which has struggled in recent outings. Athanaze’s touted strength against spin could be pivotal.
Also earning a maiden call-up is Trinidad & Tobago’s Khary Pierre. Pierre has built a solid reputation in West Indian cricket as a left-arm orthodox spinner and a capable lower-order batsman. He has taken over 100 first-class wickets, including multiple five-wicket hauls, and boasts best bowling figures of 7-45.
The squad will be without 100-Test veteran, opener, and former captain Kraigg Braithwaite, who has had his struggles at the top of the order.
According to head coach Daren Sammy, the selection reflects strategic planning tailored to subcontinental conditions and the opposition.
“Playing in the subcontinent always presents a challenge and we have selected a team to be competitive in these conditions,” said Sammy in a statement released by Cricket West Indies.
“This will be our second series together as a Test team, but we have already shown what we are capable of as a unit once we are committed to our brand and plans of the team.”
The full squad for the West Indies Test Tour of India:
- Roston Chase (Captain)
- Jomel Warrican (Vice-Captain)
- Kevlon Anderson
- Alick Athanaze
- John Campbell
- Tagenarine Chanderpaul
- Justin Greaves
- Shai Hope
- Tevin Imlach
- Alzarri Joseph
- Shamar Joseph
- Brandon King
- Anderson Phillip
- Khary Pierre
- Jayden Seales
The team will be eager to move past the disappointment of their recently concluded Test series against Australia, which ended in a whitewash.
