Shimron Hetmyer (Source:X)
Shimron Hetmyer's absence from ICC's social media post involving West Indies players has become the talk of the town before T20 World Cup. Two-time champions West Indies are set to begin their ICC T20 World Cup 2026 campaign on February 7 against Scotland at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Known for their explosive T20 pedigree and flair-packed squads, the Caribbean side once again arrives with power-hitters and match-winners capable of turning games in a matter of overs.
Shimron Hetmyer absent from ICC's T20 World Cup headshot
However, just a few days before the tournament, a fresh controversy has emerged, leaving fans speculating about the future of one of their most dangerous batters, Shimron Hetmyer.
The ICC recently shared official headshots of the West Indies squad for the T20 World Cup 2026. While the image featured the rest of the squad, Hetmyer’s absence did not go unnoticed.
Within minutes, fans flooded social media, questioning why the left-hander's image was missing and whether it hinted at a deeper issue.
It is important to note that neither the ICC nor Cricket West Indies has provided any clarification regarding the missing image.
No official statement has been released confirming Hetmyer's removal from the squad, nor has any injury or disciplinary issue been reported.
Fans recall Shimron Hetmyer's 2022 World Cup snub
For many fans, the situation immediately revived memories of a past episode that cost Hetmyer a place at a previous ICC tournament. In 2022, the West Indies batter was ruled out of the T20 World Cup after missing not one but two flights to Australia.
Despite his travel being rescheduled at his request due to personal reasons, Hetmyer also failed to make the second flight, forcing CWI to replace him with Shamarh Brooks.
At the time, CWI had stated that logistical challenges and flight availability left them with no choice but to move on without the southpaw.
With that history in mind, fans have been quick to connect the dots, wondering whether a similar issue has resurfaced, or if the missing headshot is simply a administrative oversight.
What makes the situation even more intriguing is Hetmyer’s form in 2026. In six matches, he has scored 233 runs at an impressive average of 46.60 and a strike rate of 184.92.
During the recent tour of South Africa, he scored 171 runs in three innings at an average of 85.50 and a strike rate of 178.13.
West Indies' schedule for T20 World Cup 2026
Despite Shimron Hetmyer's individual performances, the West Indies’ overall results have been underwhelming. They suffered a 2-1 T20I series loss to South Africa, followed by defeats against Afghanistan (2-1) and New Zealand (3-1).
The West Indies, champions in 2012 and 2016, are placed in Group C alongside England, Nepal, Italy, and Scotland, which replaced Bangladesh after they refused to travel to India.
West Indies squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Shai Hope (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, and Romario Shepherd.
