West Indies announce squad for Afghanistan T20Is in UAE ahead of T20 World Cup

The West Indies will play Afghanistan in a three-match T20I series next week. All matches will be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This series will be a practice for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup, which will take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 9.

Brandon King will lead the West Indies as white-ball captain. Shai Hope is not available for selection because of his commitments in the ongoing SA20 2025-26. Roston Chase, Akeal Hosein, and Sherfane Rutherford will also miss the UAE tour for the same reason.

Quentin Sampson received his first international call-up after strong performances in last year’s Caribbean Premier League (CPL) for the Guyana Amazon Warriors. He replaces Rovman Powell. Veteran players Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd have been rested as part of workload management.

Also read -Watch: Dewald Brevis’ no-look six against Kagiso Rabada from SA20 2025/26 breaks the internet

Joseph and Lewis return to the West Indies squad

Shamar Joseph and Evin Lewis have returned to the West Indies squad after recovering from injuries. However, Alzarri Joseph has not yet regained full fitness. His progress will be monitored before any decision is made about his participation in the T20 World Cup. According to Cricket West Indies (CWI), Joseph is recovering steadily.

Sammy highlights the importance of the subcontinental series

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy said that playing a series in the subcontinent will give the team ideal practice ahead of the T20 World Cup.

“The opportunity to play competitive matches in subcontinental conditions is perfect. It helps our preparations and builds confidence ahead of a competitive T20 World Cup,” Sammy told ESPNCricinfo.

He added, “It is also a good chance to assess players who missed a lot of cricket in late 2025 and those stepping into important roles for this series.”

See also- 5 strong contenders to take over Australia’s captaincy after Alyssa Healy ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026

Series details

The series will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the UAE from January 19–22. It will serve as preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, starting on February 6. The final squad will be announced before the three-match T20I series against South Africa from January 27–31.

West Indies squad against Afghanistan:

Brandon King (C), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Shimron Hetmyer, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Khary Pierre, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Ramon Simmonds, Shamar Springer.