West India announced their squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series Sri Lankawith the star fast bowler Alzarri Joseph not particularly out of order. Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed that the pacer has been rested as part of his workload management plan ahead of the two-match Test series against the same opponents.
The series marks West Indies’ first T20I assignment since the campaign 2026 T20 World Cupwhere they emerged as one of the most competitive teams in the tournament and remained in the hunt for a semi-final spot until the latter stages. With preparations already underway for future international commitments, the selectors opted to make a few changes to the squad, retaining the core group that impressed at the global event.
Alzarri Joseph made a strategic break
Joseph’s omission is not injury-related and comes as a precaution to manage the demands placed on one of West Indies’ best fast bowlers. The management believes that the rest period will help him stay fresh for the longer format with the crucial Test series against Sri Lanka scheduled immediately after the T20I.
His absence opens the door for other bowlers to step up and take on greater responsibilities in the shortest format. While Yusuf’s pace and experience will be missed, the squad still has plenty of firepower through the likes of him. Jason HolderRomario Shepherd, Shamar Joseph and Matthew Forde.
3 changes in World Cup squad for West Indies
The selectors have fielded three players in the squad compared to the group that participated in the T20 World Cup. Ackeem Auguste, Jewel Andrew and Shamar Springer they have all the callbacks they’ve earned and will want to make an impact. Three replaces Johnson Charles, Quentin Sampson and Jayden Seales. Auguste and Andrew add depth to the batting unit, while Springer provides an all-rounder who can help with both bat and ball.
All three players have previously represented West Indies in T20 cricket and give the team management confidence that they can adapt quickly and strengthen the squad during the home series.
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Shamar Yusuf is preparing to return
Another positive development for the hosts is the expected return of the fast bowler Shamar Yusif. The batsman was out of the squad ahead of the third ODI against Sri Lanka but is now set to rejoin the squad ahead of the T20I leg of the tour. Sri Lanka recently won the ODI series 1-0 after rain washed out both the second and third matches. The visitors will now look to carry that momentum into the T20Is, while West Indies will aim to bounce back in front of their home crowd.
The three-match T20I series will be played at Sabina Park in Jamaica on June 11, 13 and 14. Shai UmidWest Indies will be keen to start this new phase on a winning note against a Sri Lankan side coming in with confidence after their ODI success.
West Indies squad for Sri Lanka T20Is: Shai Hope (c), Jewel Andrew, Ackeem Auguste, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer.
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