NEW DELHI: Cricket fans are on the edge of their seats as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) prepares to announce the squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed on Sunday that the selection will take place online within the next two to three days, likely on September 23 or 24.
This highly anticipated series marks India’s inaugural home campaign in the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle. All eyes will be on young skipper Shubman Gill, who is set to lead the Test team after successfully guiding India to a 2-2 draw in the recent five-match series in England.
Series Schedule:
- First Test: October 2-6, Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
- Second Test: October 10-14, Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi
The West Indies, currently ranked eighth in Tests, face a formidable challenge against the fourth-ranked Indian side. To bolster their lineup, the West Indies selectors have brought back experienced batsmen Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Alick Athanaze.
Head coach Daren Sammy commented on the squad changes, stating, “The return of Tagenarine Chanderpaul is crucial to improving our performance at the top of the order given our recent struggles. Alick Athanaze has been added specifically for his strengths and qualities against spin bowling.”
Left-arm spinner Khary Pierre earns his first call-up, expected to significantly strengthen the spin department. Pierre boasts an impressive record of 41 wickets at an average of 13.56 in the West Indies Championship. “Khary is included for the first time as our second spinner in what we anticipate will be helpful conditions,” Sammy added.
However, another key left-arm spinner, Gudakesh Motie, has been rested. This decision allows him to focus on the upcoming limited-overs schedule, including the T20 World Cup, slated for February-March.
West Indies Test Squad:
- Roston Chase (captain)
- Jomel Warrican (vice-captain)
- Kevlon Anderson
- Alick Athanaze
- John Campbell
- Tagenarine Chanderpaul
- Justin Greaves
- Shai Hope
- Tevin Imlach
- Alzarri Joseph
- Shamar Joseph
- Brandon King
- Anderson Phillip
- Khary Pierre
- Jayden Seales