The West Indies have named their player group for the all-important Cricket World Cup Qualifier next month in Zimbabwe.
The big talking point of the group named came through the recall of bowling all-rounder Keemo Paul, who last played for the side at ODI level back in July last year. Gudakesh Motie, who performed well in Zimbabwe during the West Indies’ Test tour earlier in the year, has also earned a spot in the squad.
West Indies were consigned to the Qualifier after a ninth-place finish in Cricket World Cup Super League, 10 points adrift from South Africa, who claimed the final automatic place this week while watching other results go their way.
Lead West Indies selector Desmond Haynes says Keemo Paul’s all-round skillset could make him a key component of the side’s tilt at qualification.
“Paul is a three-dimensional player, who can bowl the new ball effectively, he’s dynamic in the outfield and he can also make vital runs.
“We see him as a potential match-winner for us.”
Cricket West Indies will give players playing in the IPL a chance to recoup ahead of the Qualifier, while those named in the tournament squad not currently in India will prepare with three ODIs against fellow tournament competitors UAE in Sharjah.
As cover for those at the IPL, four uncapped players have been named in the UAE series squad: Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Dominic Drakes and Akeem Jordan.
Upon speaking to those in the group, Haynes is confident of a strong performance.
“They are fully aware of the job at hand. We are happy with the preparations and the mindset of the players, and everyone is clear about their roles in the squad.
“It will be a challenging tournament, it will be intense and competitive, there is no doubt about that.”
The West Indies also went through the Qualifier in 2018 to secure their 2019 Cricket World Cup place, finishing top of the Super Six group to punch their ticket.
West Indies ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier Squad
Shai Hope (c), Rovman Powell (vc), Shamarh Brooks, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Nicholas Pooran, Romario Shepherd
Squad for UAE ODIs
Shai Hope (c), Brandon King (vc), Alick Athanaze, Shamarh Brooks, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Dominic Drakes, Kavem Hodge, Akeem Jordan, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Raymon Reifer, Odean Smith, Devon Thomas
