Pooran, Russell among seniors to skip Sri Lanka tour

The West Indies have announced their squad for the upcoming ODI and T20 series against Sri Lanka. Notably, Andre Russell, Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, and Akeal Hosein have withdrawn from the T20 squad citing personal reasons. However, opener Evin Lewis makes a return to the team.

Evin Lewis last represented the West Indies during the T20 World Cup in 2022. Brandon King also returns to the T20 side after recovering from injury. In the absence of Russell, teammates Terrance Hinds and Shamar Springer from the Trinbago Knight Riders have been called up for their international debuts.

Rovman Powell will lead the West Indies in the T20 series against Sri Lanka, with Roston Chase serving as vice-captain. West Indies coach Darren Sammy commented:

“The tour of Sri Lanka provides us with an opportunity to evaluate our players in different situations, especially with several senior players missing due to rest and rehabilitation from injuries. We are confident in our team’s ability to compete strongly against Sri Lanka.”

For the T20 series, Andre Fletcher will serve as the reserve opener behind Evin Lewis and Brandon King. Another top-order option is Alik Athanaze, while Sherfane Rutherford will take on the finisher role.

The West Indies squad includes only one frontline spinner, left-arm finger spinner Gudakesh Motie. Alzarri Joseph also returns to the team.