Following a resounding defeat in the ODI and T20 series against England, the West Indies have set their sights on the upcoming home Test series against Australia. Cricket West Indies has announced a 16-member squad for this crucial series.
Sports News: The West Indies cricket team has announced its 16-member squad for the upcoming three-match home Test series against Australia, aiming for a b start to the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle. After a prolonged period of poor form and recent losses in the T20 and ODI series against England, the West Indies are now focused on a comeback in red-ball cricket.
Rostan Chase Appointed Captain, Jomel Warrican as Deputy
Veteran all-rounder Rostan Chase will captain the team. He has consistently been a reliable middle-order batsman and off-spinner in recent years. Jomel Warrican, an experienced left-arm spinner, will serve as the vice-captain. This decision highlights the selectors' emphasis on experience and composure, particularly against a b Australian team boasting both batting depth and potent bowling.
Opportunities for New Talent
The Test squad features several surprising selections. Most notably, Kavem Anderson receives his maiden West Indies Test call-up, rewarded for consistent b performances in domestic cricket. Limited-overs veteran and ODI vice-captain, Brandon King, also has the chance to earn his first Test cap.
Conversely, the omission of veteran pacer Kemar Roach is a significant decision. He has been replaced by younger, in-form bowlers such as Jayden Seales, Alzarri Joseph, and Shammarh Brooks. The inclusion of fast bowlers Anderson Philip and Johann Layne further indicates the Caribbean team's intention to challenge Australia with a b pace attack.
The Return of Kyle Mayers
Kyle Mayers returns to the Test team after recent impressive batting displays in the ODI format. His composed performances against England in the ODIs secured his place. The team hopes he can replicate this patience and technique in the Test arena.
West Indies head coach, Darren Sammy, shared his thoughts following the squad announcement: “We want to start the WTC cycle bly and aim to create an impregnable fortress at home.” He acknowledged the challenge posed by Australia's experienced and balanced team but expressed full confidence in his team's young players.
Sammy added that this is the time to return Caribbean cricket to its glorious path and deliver an inspiring performance in front of the home crowd.
WI vs AUS: Three-Test Series Schedule
- First Test: June 25-29, 2025 — Kensington Oval, Barbados
- Second Test: July 3-7, 2025 — National Stadium, Grenada
- Third Test (Day/Night): July 12-16, 2025 — Sabina Park, Jamaica
The third Test will be played under lights, offering the home crowd the excitement of day/night Test cricket. This initiative reflects the West Indies board's strategy to enhance fan engagement and popularize the format.
West Indies Test Squad
Rostan Chase (Captain), Jomel Warrican (Vice-Captain), Kavem Anderson, Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Kyle Mayers, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Tevyn Imlach, Alzarri Joseph, Shammarh Brooks, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Mikyle Louis, Anderson Philip, and Jayden Seales.
