St. John’s, Antigua: Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled its squad for the upcoming five-match T20 International series against New Zealand, signaling a period of strategic refinement as the team targets peak form for the T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.
The most notable selection decision sees the omission of experienced spinner Gudakesh Motie, a move the CWI confirmed was made with a long-term focus on the World Cup.
CWI stated that the 30-year-old left-arm spinner, who has featured prominently in recent white-ball fixtures, will use the New Zealand series window to work intensely on a technical issue with his bowling action that has reportedly affected his recent consistency and form.
Motie will not be idle, however. He is scheduled to collaborate with specialists from the Royals Sports Group, owners of the Paarl Royals franchise, ahead of the SA20 tournament in December. The objective is to help the spinner regain his rhythm and confidence before the crucial global tournament next February.
“This decision regarding Gudakesh is purely strategic and player-focused,” a CWI spokesperson commented. “We believe this targeted intervention is essential to ensure he is at his best for the World Cup campaign. His contribution remains highly valued.”
The squad welcomes the timely return of all-rounder Matthew Forde, who has been sidelined since August with a shoulder injury. His presence is a boost for the team’s balance.
To compensate for the unavailability of injured quicks Ramon Simmons and Jediah Blades, CWI has added Shamar Springer to the roster, aiming to strengthen the overall pace attack for the demanding five-match series.
The full 15-member squad will be led by skipper Shai Hope and features key T20 specialists such as Jason Holder, Brandon King, and Romario Shepherd.
In a move addressing non-technical performance enhancement, CWI has appointed Clinical Psychologist Krisnan Hurdle as the new Mental Skills and Performance Coach. This appointment follows recommendations from the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee’s emergency meeting in August. Hurdle is set to join the squad immediately, commencing his tenure with the New Zealand tour.
This strategic hire underscores the CWI’s commitment to holistic player development and ensuring mental resilience ahead of a major tournament cycle.
West Indies T20I Squad: Shai Hope (c), Alick Athanaze, Ackeem Auguste, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Amir Jangoo, Brandon King, Khary Pierre, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer.
