West Indies Announces Squad for Tour of India

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against India, scheduled from October 2nd to 14th, 2025. The matches, to be held in Ahmedabad and Delhi, constitute a crucial part of the ICC World Test Championship and mark the West Indies’ first away Test assignment in the new cycle, as well as their first Test tour of India since 2018. The squad sees the introduction of fresh talent in Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Alick Athanaze, aiming to reinforce the top-order batting, along with a maiden Test call-up for left-arm spinner Khary Pierre. These changes reflect a strategic approach toward the challenges posed by the Indian conditions and the team’s need for enhanced batting stability and varied bowling options.

The inclusion of Tagenarine Chanderpaul, son of the legendary West Indies batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, brings a sense of anticipation and legacy to the series. Known for his composed batting style and solid technique, Chanderpaul is expected to provide much-needed resilience at the top of the order. Similarly, Alick Athanaze, a promising young batsman, adds another dimension to the batting line-up, bringing his aggressive stroke play and ability to score quickly. The selection of Khary Pierre as the second specialist spinner, alongside Jomel Warrican, signifies CWI’s intent to exploit the turning tracks often encountered in India. Pierre’s impressive performance in the West Indies Championship, where he topped the wicket charts with 41 wickets at an average of 13.56, underlines his potent spin bowling capabilities.

The decision to rest Gudakesh Motie, a key spinner in recent times, is driven by a long-term perspective. Recognizing the demanding schedule ahead, including the ICC T20 World Cup in February and March 2026, CWI has opted to manage Motie’s workload and prioritize his fitness for future limited-overs engagements. This move underscores the board’s commitment to player well-being and its strategic planning for crucial tournaments. The squad is captained by the experienced Roston Chase, with Jomel Warrican serving as his deputy, lending valuable leadership and experience to the relatively young team.

The squad comprises a balanced mix of youth and experience, combining the promise of emerging talents with the seasoned expertise of established players. Kevlon Anderson, John Campbell, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, and Brandon King provide stability in the middle order, while the pace attack, spearheaded by Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Anderson Phillip, and Jayden Seales, promises to offer a potent threat with their varied skill sets. This blend of different playing styles and experience levels is aimed at providing flexibility and adaptability in the face of diverse match situations.

The team management, led by Head Coach Daren Sammy, boasts a strong support staff equipped to handle the various aspects of the game. Floyd Reifer (Assistant Coach – Batting), Ravi Rampaul (Assistant Coach – Bowling), and Rayon Griffith (Assistant Coach – Fielding) bring specialized expertise to their respective domains, ensuring a comprehensive approach to player development and strategic planning. Rawl Lewis as Team Manager, along with the support staff including the physiotherapist, strength and conditioning coach, massage therapist, team analyst, and media officer, forms a robust unit dedicated to providing the players with the best possible environment to perform at their optimal level.

The two-Test series against India presents a significant challenge for the West Indies, given India’s dominance on home turf. However, with a blend of experienced players and promising youngsters, coupled with a well-structured support staff, the West Indies team aims to put up a competitive performance and make a mark in the ICC World Test Championship. The matches at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi will serve as a testing ground for the West Indies’ resilience and their ability to adapt to challenging conditions. The tour promises to be an exciting encounter, pitting the West Indies’ evolving Test squad against a formidable Indian side in what is anticipated to be a closely contested series.