Vitel Lawes, the 19-year-old left-arm wrist spinner, who came into the spotlight after West Indies announced the squad for the three One-Day International (ODI) matches against New Zealand.
The young cricketer has received his first call-up to the senior national team after impressing at the youth level. The five-match ODI series will be played in Guyana and Barbados. From 12th July 2026 to 22nd July 2026, the ODI Concluding match will be played at Kensington Oval, Barbados.
Lawes has earned his place after a brilliant performance at this year’s ICC Under-19 World Cup. He finished the tournament with 10 wickets and also bowled the highest number of dot balls. His performances caught the attention of the West Indies selectors.
Vitel Lawes Earns Call-Up as Shimron Hetmyer Misses Out
The teenager has already been training with the senior West Indies squad during the team’s preparation camp for the current home season. Miller will work closely with Lawes, helping him improve his skills and adjust to the demands of senior international cricket.
Most of the squad remains the same as the one that recently played against Sri Lanka in Jamaica. However, there are a few important changes.
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Experienced batter Shimron Hetmyer is not available because he has been given permission to take part in Major League Cricket 2026. The West Indies Cricket Board granted him a No Objection Certificate (NOC), allowing him to fulfil his franchise cricket commitments.
Another change comes after a personal tragedy. All-rounder Shamar Springer withdrew himself from the squad following the demise of his mother. In his place, Keemo Paul has been selected. Paul had recently joined the Test squad as cover and now returns to the ODI team.
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy believes the upcoming series is a very important step in the team’s preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup. He said every ODI series from now until the World Cup should be treated like a must-win contest. According to Sammy, playing against a strong team like New Zealand gives the West Indies a great chance to improve their performances and build confidence.
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Sammy also explained the reason behind selecting Vitel Lawes. He said the youngster’s inclusion is part of the team’s long-term planning. The coaching staff wants to give talented young players opportunities in conditions that suit their strengths so they can gain valuable international experience early in their careers.
Vitel Lawes Part of Long-Term Plans
This approach shows that the West Indies are not only focused on winning matches today but are also building a stronger team for the future. Giving young players exposure alongside experienced cricketers can help create a balanced squad for major tournaments.
The West Indies squad will play in Guyana after the Test series against Sri Lanka concludes in Antigua. The selectors have also confirmed that any changes for the final two ODIs will be announced later, depending on performances and team requirements.
Full Squad of West Indies For New Zealand Clash
West Indies ODI squad: Shai Hope (c), Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Vitel Lawes, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales
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