West Indies ODI Squad for New Zealand Named; 19-Year-Old Player Makes Special Entry

West Indies (Source: AFP)

In a significant development, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced a 15-member squad for the first three matches of the five-match ODI series against New Zealand. 

Captain Shai Hope will continue to lead the side, while the biggest talking point from the squad is the inclusion of 19-year-old left-arm wrist spinner Vitel Lawes, who has earned his maiden senior call-up.

The ODI series will be played across Guyana and Barbados, with the opening three matches scheduled in Providence before the final two games move to Bridgetown. 

New Zealand Tour Of West Indies 2026 Schedule

The first ODI is scheduled on Sunday, July 12, at Providence. The second and third matches will also be played at the same venue on July 14 and July 17.

After the first three matches, the action shifts to Bridgetown, where the final two ODIs will be played on July 20 and July 22. 

All five matches are day-night encounters and are scheduled to begin at 12:00 AM IST.

Who Is Vitel Lawes, The 19-year-old star to feature in WI squad?

One of the major talking points from the West Indies squad for the ODI series against New Zealand is the inclusion of Vitel Lawes. The talented 19-year-old left-arm wrist spinner has yet to play professional cricket.

If he makes his debut during the New Zealand series, it will not only be his international debut but also his first-ever List A appearance. It is important to note that he has not featured in first-class, one-day or T20 cricket at the senior domestic level.

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He has also been training with the West Indies senior squad since the pre-season camp ahead of the home international season, and there is a chance he might play against New Zealand.

"The inclusion of Vitel Lawes is strategic as we continue our long-term vision of exposing players who can complement the team in conditions that best suit their skill sets," head coach Daren Sammy said.

"Every series we play from here on leading up to the 50-over World Cup, we view them as must-win scenarios," Sammy said. "The matches against New Zealand provide the best opportunity for us to continue our improvement as an ODI unit while winning more matches for the people of the Caribbean."

Talking about the rest of the squad, fast bowler Jayden Seales has returned after recovering from injury. Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, and Matthew Forde have also been included in the squad.

There are also a few notable changes in the squad. Shimron Hetmyer will miss the opening phase of the series after receiving permission from Cricket West Indies to complete his Major League Cricket (MLC) commitments with the Seattle Orcas.

Meanwhile, all-rounder Shamar Springer withdrew from selection after the passing of his mother. Cricket West Indies has included Keemo Paul as his replacement.

West Indies squad for first three ODIs vs New Zealand

Shai Hope (capt, wk), Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Vitel Lawes, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales

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