Hetmyer Re-joins WI ODI Squad for England Series

Shimron Hetmyer has been recalled to the West Indies ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against England, beginning in Antigua on Thursday. Hetmyer, who last played ODIs in December 2023 against England, replaces Alick Athanaze as the only change to the squad that recently completed a tour of Sri Lanka.

Hetmyer missed the Sri Lanka series due to personal reasons after an impressive CPL season, finishing fifth on the run-scorers' list. His return bolsters the West Indies line-up, led by captain Shai Hope. The squad also includes 17-year-old batting talent Jewel Andrew, who made his debut at the end of the Sri Lanka tour.

Athanaze, who opened in the initial matches of the Sri Lanka series, was replaced by Evin Lewis in the final ODI, where Lewis scored a rapid 102* off 61 balls, helping secure a consolation win for the team.

With Liam Livingstone captaining England in Jos Buttler’s absence, the West Indies are eager to renew their historic rivalry with England. Head coach Daren Sammy emphasised the significance of facing England, noting, "This rivalry brings out the best in us, especially playing at home where the crowd adds energy."

The first two ODIs will be held at Antigua's Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, followed by the series finale in Barbados and five T20Is at the Kensington Oval and Daren Sammy National Stadium in St. Lucia. This series marks a critical step for West Indies as they set their sights on the 2027 ICC Men's World Cup qualification.

West Indies ODI squad: Shai Hope (capt), Jewel Andrew, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Hayden Walsh Jr.