West Indies Name Full-Strength Squad for New Zealand T20I Series: Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled a strong 15-member squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, scheduled to run from November 5 to 13. The Men in Maroon are heading into this contest high on confidence after their exciting series win over Bangladesh, as they continue to gear up for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Core Group Retained for Consistency
The selectors have decided to stick with the core group from the Bangladesh series to keep the team balanced and consistent. One of the biggest positives for the West Indies is the return of all-rounder Matthew Forde, who makes his comeback after recovering from a shoulder injury.
Matthew Forde Returns to Boost the Pace Attack
Forde has successfully completed his rehabilitation and return-to-play program, and he’s now fully fit to rejoin the squad. His return adds depth and strength to the West Indies pace attack, which has been dealing with a few injury concerns in recent months.
Shamar Springer also adds more energy and variety to the bowling department, giving the West Indies more options as they prepare to face New Zealand in challenging conditions.
Gudakesh Motie Ruled Out Due to Bowling Action Issues
On the other hand, left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie will miss the New Zealand tour after struggling with form due to a technical issue with his bowling action.
Motie will now work closely with spin specialists from the Royals Sports Group, the owners of the Paarl Royals franchise in South Africa, to correct his action and rebuild confidence.
CWI has made this decision with an eye on the future, ensuring Motie is ready for the SA20 League in December and the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, where he is expected to play an important role for the team.
CWI Appoints Krisnan Hurdle as Mental Skills and Performance Coach
In another key move, CWI has appointed Krisnan Hurdle, a clinical psychologist, as the team’s new Mental Skills and Performance Coach. Hurdle will begin his stint with the upcoming tour of New Zealand. His appointment was confirmed during the emergency Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee meeting held in August.
CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe highlighted the importance of this addition, emphasizing how it will help players handle pressure during major tournaments.
Bascombe stated, “The addition of a mental skills and performance coach reflects our commitment to developing the complete cricketer. At the elite level, success is as much about mindset and composure as it is about technical ability.”
He further added, “Strengthening this area ensures that our players are provided with the necessary non-technical support geared towards equipping them to manage pressure and maintain focus.”
West Indies Squad for New Zealand T20Is
Shai Hope (C), Alick Athanaze, Ackeem Auguste, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Amir Jangoo, Brandon King, Khary Pierre, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer.
The upcoming series promises to be an exciting one as the Men in Maroon look to build on their momentum and fine-tune their preparations ahead of a packed international calendar.
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