The West Indies cricket will see two big players make a comeback into the ODI squad against Ireland and England. Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels returns to the squad. Gayle played his last ODI match in 2015 World Cup against New Zealand. It will be a big boost for West Indies team who will be trying to firm their place in the World Cup 2019 directly.
If Sri Lanka does not win the 2 matches in the ongoing ODI series against India, the West Indies need to 6 matches to qualify directly. Chris Gayle return will strengthen the opening batting while Marlon Samuels played his last ODI against Pakistan last year. The team will be captained by young Jason Holder.
West Indies lost the ODI series to India by 1-3 and need to play well to qualify for the World Cup directly. The other greats like Sunil Narine and Darren Bravo have refused to play in all important ODI series against a strong England side. Dwayne Bravo is not 100% for the series.
West Indies fast bowler Jerome Taylor also has been included in the squad. Jason Holder led side are currently playing the 3 match test series against hosts England which will complete on 7th September. Ireland will take on West Indies on 13th September at Stormont and then take on hosts England in the five-match ODI series starting from 19th September to the 29th.
“With regards to the selection of the ODI squad, the panel welcomes back Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels, who will both add value to our batting and help with the nurturing of the young batsmen in the team,” chairman of selectors Courtney Browne said. “
The fight for the final spot is between Sri Lanka and West Indies. West Indies need to play aggressive cricket in all 6 ODI matches especially against England who are performing well in limited overs format.
West Indies ODI squad against Ireland and England
Sunil Ambris, Devendra Bishoo, Miguel Cummins, Chris Gayle, Jason Holder (capt), Kyle Hope, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Jason Mohammed, Ashley Nurse, Rovman Powell, Marlon Samuels, Jerome Taylor, Kesrick Williams
