No More Waiting: Hetmyer’s ODI Return Signals West Indies’ World Cup Urgency

Shimron Hetmyer will return to West Indies’ ODI squad during the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, as Cricket West Indies (CWI) begins its strategic build-up towards the 2027 ODI World Cup, scheduled for October and November next year.

Hetmyer, who last featured in ODIs against England in June 2025, will join the squad ahead of the final match of the series, which begins June 3 at Sabina Park. His recall follows a standout T20 World Cup campaign earlier this year, where he amassed 248 runs at 41.33 with a strike rate of 186.46, despite a lean IPL 2026 stint with Rajasthan Royals (78 runs in seven innings at 113.04).

Key Returns and Omissions

Alzarri Joseph returns from a back injury, set to play his first internationals since Australia’s visit last year. He joins Shamar Joseph (also back in the ODI squad) and Jayden Seales in a pace attack that will have its workload carefully managed.

Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie also returns after missing the tour of New Zealand.

Dropped from the squad that toured New Zealand are Alick Athanaze, Johann Layne, Khary Pierre, and Romario Shepherd.

World Cup Qualification Race

West Indies have lost five of their last six ODIs the lone victory coming in a Super Over against Bangladesh but have won their last four home series dating back to 2023. Currently ranked 10th, they are in a race for automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup. The top eight teams, alongside hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe, will secure places through rankings.

Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the importance of the series: “For us, this series is about setting the standard, intensity in the field, clarity with the bat, and consistency with the ball. We want to play fearless but intelligent cricket and continue building the identity we believe West Indies cricket should represent.”

West Indies ODI Squad vs Sri Lanka- Shai Hope (capt, wk), Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Shimron Hetmyer, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Shamar Springer

                                               

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