The West Indies cricket team is grappling with an unexpected and substantial setback as fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been officially ruled out of the entire two-match Test series against India. This unfortunate news comes just as preparations were intensifying for the series, which is scheduled to commence on October 2 in Ahmedabad.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed Joseph’s withdrawal, citing a lower back injury. After experiencing discomfort, subsequent scans revealed a degeneration of a previously resolved issue in his lower back, necessitating his removal from the squad. This is a significant blow, given Joseph’s role as a potent force in the team’s pace attack.
In response to Joseph’s absence, Barbadian left-arm pacer Jediah Blades has been brought in as a replacement. Blades, who has prior international experience in One-Day and T20 formats, will now look to make his mark in Test cricket. This change follows an earlier injury-related exit for pacer Shamar Joseph, who was replaced by uncapped all-rounder Johann Layne, highlighting a challenging period for the West Indies’ fast-bowling resources.
Further compounding the team’s woes, experienced all-rounder Jason Holder declined the offer to join the squad as Alzarri Joseph’s replacement, citing a planned medical procedure. His decision means the team will be without another key player known for his all-round capabilities and leadership.
The revised West Indies squad for the Test series against India now includes:
- Roston Chase (Captain)
- Jomel Warrican
- Kevlon Anderson
- Alick Athanaze
- John Campbell
- Tagenarine Chanderpaul
- Justin Greaves
- Shai Hope
- Tevin Imlach
- Jediah Blades
- Johann Layne
- Brandon King
- Anderson Phillip
- Khary Pierre
- Jayden Seales