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The West Indies Cricket team is gearing up for an enthralling multi-format tour to Australia following a fiercely contested white-ball leg against England on home soil. It is worth mentioning that the highly-anticipated series between the Caribbeans and the Aussies will commence on January 17 and will feature two Tests, followed by six limited-over games (3 ODIs and 3 T20Is).
As anticipation builds for this clash of cricketing titans, Cricket West Indies has unveiled a 15-man Test squad, introducing seven new faces to the international stage.
A gripping red-ball and pink-ball battle
The West Indies tour of Australia in 2024 commences with the inaugural Test in Adelaide on January 17, succeeded by a pink ball match at the Gabba in Brisbane from January 25.
The highly esteemed Frank Worrell Trophy will be up for grabs as two cricketing powerhouses engage in a battle in the longest format. Notably, the championship is named in honour of the legendary Caribbean captain and all-rounder Frank Worrell.
Leadership dynamics: Alzarri Joseph steps into the role of vice-captain
In the squad announced by the Cricket West Indies, Kraigg Brathwaite has retained his position as the skipper for the longest format, with Alzarri Joseph stepping into the role of vice-captain for the Test series in a significant development. The decision clearly underscores Joseph’s growing influence in the team and the management’s confidence in his leadership abilities.
As the Windies look to tackle the Australian challenge, the combination of Brathwaite and Joseph at the helm is expected to bring a blend of experience and youthful exuberance to the squad.
Seven newcomers receive maiden call-ups
The unveiled lineup is marked by the inclusion of seven new faces, each receiving their maiden call-ups to the senior squad. The infusion of fresh talent in the form of Zachary McCaskie, Tevin Imlach, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Kevin Sinclair, Akeem Jordan and Shamar Joseph reflects the West Indies’ commitment to nurturing the next generation of cricketing stars.
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“We are confident”: Selectors’ perspective
Desmond Haynes, the lead selector, acknowledged the challenges posed by the unavailability of some key players but expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness. He highlighted the rigorous red-ball program implemented over the past year, aiming to ensure that the West Indies is well-equipped to face the demanding conditions of Australian cricket.
“The squad has been affected by the unavailability of some key players. However, we have had a very strong red-ball program being run over the past year. Australia away is always a challenge, but we are confident in our team.” said Haynes.
West Indies’ Test squad for Australia tour
Kraigg Brathwaite (c), Alzarri Joseph (vc), Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Kirk McKenzie, Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Justin Greaves, Joshua Da Silva, Akeem Jordan, Gudakesh Motie, Kemar Roach, Kevin Sinclai, Tevin Imlach, Shamar Joseph, Zachary McCaskie.
