The West Indies have officially announced their squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with Shai Hope set to lead an experienced and franchise-heavy side. The global event is scheduled to begin on February 7, with matches hosted across India and Sri Lanka.
The announcement signals a clear shift in strategy from the second-string squad that recently toured the UAE to face Afghanistan, as West Indies selectors have opted for proven international performers and T20 specialists ahead of the marquee event.
Major overhaul in the West Indies T20I squad after Afghanistan series
The squad bears a distinctly different look compared to the side that played the T20I series against Afghanistan. Only a handful of players from that tour have retained their places, underlining the selectors’ intent to prioritize experience and pedigree on the world stage.
Among the batters, Johnson Charles, Shimron Hetmyer and Brandon King are the only names to carry over from the UAE series. The rest of the batting group has been refreshed with players who have consistently delivered in high-pressure franchise environments.
While the batting unit has seen notable changes, the pace attack remains largely intact. Jason Holder, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales, and Matthew Forde form a balanced mix of pace, bounce, and control.
Spin options are led by Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie, who are expected to play key roles on subcontinental surfaces where variation and accuracy will be crucial.
Franchise experience shapes West Indies strategy
A defining feature of the selected squad is its strong franchise cricket influence. Several members of the team are regular participants in major T20 leagues around the world, bringing adaptability and situational awareness to the side.
Players such as Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford and Romario Shepherd have built reputations as impact performers across leagues, capable of changing games in short bursts. Their inclusion reflects West Indies’ commitment to aggressive, fearless cricket – a hallmark of their T20 identity.
Also READ: New Zealand pacer Adam Milne ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026, replacement announced
Evin Lewis left out of the West Indies T20 World Cup squad
One of the notable omissions from the squad is left-handed opener Evin Lewis. Lewis endured a disappointing outing during his limited appearances against Afghanistan and has not done enough to reclaim his spot in the final World Cup squad.
His absence signals a tough selection call by the West Indies management, emphasizing current form and adaptability over past reputation as they aim to build a cohesive unit for the tournament.
West Indies squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Shai Hope (c & wk), Johnson Charles (wk), Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd
