Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Pakistan, scheduled to take place from January 17 to 29, 2025, at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This historic tour marks the West Indies’ first Test series in Pakistan in more than 18 years.
Key Inclusions and Absences
Prominent left-handed batter Amir Jangoo has earned his maiden Test call-up following a stellar performance in the One Day International (ODI) format, where he scored a match-winning century on debut against Bangladesh.
Gudakesh Motie also makes a return to the squad after missing the recent series against Bangladesh as he was playing at the inaugural Global Super League.
Head Coach Andre Coley expressed optimism about the squad’s prospects, stating:
“For the Test series against Pakistan in January 2025, the focus is on building on what we have done well and transforming the learnings from 2024 into tangible results.”
Coley also praised the selections of Jangoo and Motie, highlighting Jangoo’s proficiency against spin bowling and Motie’s ability to strengthen the spin attack.
However, fast bowler Shamar Joseph will miss the series as he continues to recover from injury, while Alzarri Joseph will be unavailable due to other commitments.
Alzarri Joseph to Play ILT20 in UAE
Alzarri Joseph’s absence has been attributed to what CWI described as “other engagements.” It has since been confirmed that Joseph will feature in the ILT20 tournament in the UAE, representing MI Emirates. His decision to prioritize franchise cricket underscores the growing challenge of balancing national and franchise commitments for modern cricketers.
Squad Departure
The squad is set to depart the Caribbean on January 2 and will arrive in Islamabad on January 6, providing ample time for acclimatization and preparation.
Tour schedule:
10-12 January – three-day match vs Pakistan Shaheens, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
17-21 January – first Test, Multan Cricket Stadium
25-29 January – second Test, Multan Cricket Stadium
West Indies Test Squad:
Kraigg Brathwaite (c), Joshua Da Silva (vice-capt), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Tevin Imlach, Amir Jangoo, Mikyle Louis, Gudakesh Motie, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Kevin Sinclair, Jayden Seales, Jomel Warrican