The West Indies have confirmed a strong 15-man squad for their upcoming One Day International series against Ireland and England, signaling a determined push towards automatic qualification for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. The selection features a largely consistent core from their victorious campaign against Bangladesh, with notable inclusions aiming to further solidify the team’s rebuilding phase under the leadership of captain Shai Hope.
CWI Announces Squad for The West Indies ODI Tours of Ireland and England.
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) May 5, 2025
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Shai Hope to Lead a Focused West Indies Squad
Shai Hope continues as captain, guiding a squad that has shown encouraging signs of consistency. Under his stewardship, West Indies closed 2024 with impressive series wins over England and Bangladesh — achievements that have elevated their confidence and redefined their competitive edge in the ODI format.
Opening duties are likely to fall to the experienced duo of Brandon King and Evin Lewis, who have forged a solid partnership at the top. Keacy Carty, known for his composure and technique, is expected to anchor the crucial No. 3 spot.
Return of Young Stars: Amir Jangoo and Jewel Andrew
Two exciting young talents have been called upon to reinforce the lineup. Amir Jangoo, who exploded onto the scene with a scintillating 79-ball century on debut against Bangladesh, brings fearless stroke play and versatility to the middle order.
Jewel Andrew, the teenage batting prodigy, has also been recalled. Inspired by the consistency of Shai Hope, Andrew has expressed ambitions to average 50 and represent the West Indies for years to come. His return marks a bold step in the squad’s youth development strategy and long-term planning.
West Indies Injury Comebacks and Bowling Power Reinforced
The squad is boosted by the return of pacers Shamar Joseph and Matthew Forde, both of whom missed the Bangladesh series due to minor fitness issues. Their presence adds vital depth and pace variety to a bowling attack already comprising the likes of Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales, and the dynamic Romario Shepherd.
Gudakesh Motie will spearhead the spin department, offering control in the middle overs, while all-round options like Sherfane Rutherford and Roston Chase enhance the team’s balance across formats.
Strategic Coaching Changes for Crucial Fixtures
In a move to refine the team’s bowling craft, West Indies have appointed former international Ravi Rampaul as the new bowling coach, replacing James Franklin. For the Ireland series specifically, former Irish allrounder Kevin O’Brien will join the coaching unit, providing invaluable insights into local conditions and tactical nuances.
Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the importance of these series in the context of the team’s long-term vision. “These matches form a critical component towards the 2027 World Cup,” he stated. “We are building a culture focused on discipline and executing a brand of cricket that aligns with our broader objectives.”
Full ODI Squad for Ireland and England Tour
- Shai Hope (Captain)
- Jewel Andrew
- Keacy Carty
- Roston Chase
- Matthew Forde
- Justin Greaves
- Amir Jangoo
- Alzarri Joseph
- Shamar Joseph
- Brandon King
- Evin Lewis
- Gudakesh Motie
- Sherfane Rutherford
- Jayden Seales
- Romario Shepherd
ODI Series Schedule Overview
Ireland (Clontarf Cricket Club, Dublin):
- 1st ODI – May 21
- 2nd ODI – May 23
- 3rd ODI – May 25
England (Venues: Edgbaston, The Oval, Headingley):
- 1st ODI – May 29
- 2nd ODI – May 31
- 3rd ODI – June 2
Following the ODIs, West Indies will face England in a three-match T20I series, with squad details for the shortest format yet to be announced.
Onward to the 2027 World Cup: The Bigger Picture
Ranked ninth in the ICC ODI standings, the West Indies are striving to climb the ladder through sustained performance and strategic squad rotation. Each series in 2025 carries critical weight, and this European tour offers a key opportunity to secure ranking points, solidify team chemistry, and provide valuable exposure to rising talents.
The tour marks more than just another bilateral contest — it is a chapter in the West Indies’ evolving comeback story. With an eye on redemption and a legacy of greatness to honor, this squad embodies the region’s undying cricketing spirit.
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Preparations for the 2027 @cricketworldcup continue as West Indies announce their playing group for upcoming ODIs against Ireland and England 💪
— ICC (@ICC) May 6, 2025
Details 👇https://t.co/wGSEf6wWed
Conclusion
With a balanced blend of experienced match-winners and ambitious young prospects, the West Indies ODI squad is strategically positioned to make a meaningful impact on their European tour. As they prepare to take on Ireland and England, the team carries not only the weight of expectation but also the momentum of recent victories.
These upcoming matches are more than just fixtures — they are defining steps toward reclaiming a place among the world’s elite and securing a direct path to the 2027 World Cup. With renewed leadership, refined coaching, and emerging stars rising to the occasion, West Indies cricket is firmly on the road to resurgence.
