Russell and Holder Return as West Indies Announce T20I Squads for England and Ireland series

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced its T20I squads for the upcoming series against England and Ireland. Big names like Andre Russell and Jason Holder make a comeback, while Nicholas Pooran has opted out of the tour to rest after a long IPL season.

Russell, Holder Back in Action

Andre Russell returns to the T20I setup after missing the England series in November 2024 due to an ankle injury. Jason Holder also comes back, having last played T20Is in February 2024. Their inclusion strengthens the side, especially after West Indies suffered a 3-0 whitewash at home against Bangladesh in their absence.

Leadership Change: Hope Replaces Powell

CWI has named Shai Hope as the new T20I captain, replacing Rovman Powell, who was sacked after the Bangladesh series loss. The board hopes Hope’s leadership will bring stability and fresh energy as the team builds toward the T20 World Cup 2026.

Nicholas Pooran Opts Out

Explosive batter Nicholas Pooran has ruled himself out of the twin series, citing the need for rest following a hectic IPL 2025. His absence opens doors for other batters to step up.

Schedule and Transition Plan

The current European tour began with ODIs against Ireland and will end with T20Is against the same opponent. Before that, the West Indies will play a three-match T20I series against England.

Several senior players and staff will skip the Ireland leg. Roston Chase and Brandon King are replaced by Keacy Carty and Jyd Goolie. Head coach Darren Sammy, along with assistants Floyd Reifer and Ravi Rampaul, will return home early to lead a training camp in Barbados ahead of the Test series against Australia. Rayon Griffith will coach the team during the Ireland series.

West Indies Squad for England T20Is

Shai Hope (C), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd.

West Indies Squad for Ireland T20Is

Shai Hope (C), Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Matthew Forde, Jyd Goolie, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd.

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