Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced its One Day International (ODI) squad for the upcoming three-match series against New Zealand. The series will take place after the conclusion of the T20I leg between the two sides. One of the biggest highlights of the selection is the return of opening batter John Campbell, who is making his ODI comeback after six long years.
The West Indies will play the ODIs in Christchurch, Napier, and Hamilton on November 16, 19, and 22, respectively. The matches are expected to provide both teams with an opportunity to test their bench strength ahead of future international assignments.
Campbell’s selection marks an important comeback story in Caribbean cricket. The left-handed opener, who last played an ODI in 2019, has been recalled after showing strong performances in domestic cricket, especially in the Super50 Cup. Campbell was Jamaica’s leading run-scorer in the tournament, amassing 278 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 102.20. His consistent performances with the bat helped his team in key matches and earned him another shot at international cricket.
The 31-year-old will be eager to make an immediate impact and cement his place in the national side once again. His return adds experience and depth to a team that is currently rebuilding under the leadership of Shai Hope.
Apart from Campbell’s return, the West Indies squad features two new faces—Johann Layne and Shamar Springer—who have earned their maiden ODI call-ups. Layne, a young fast bowler known for his sharp pace and control, has been impressive in domestic competitions. Springer, an all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball, brings balance to the side and adds options in the middle order.
The selectors appear to be aiming for a mix of experience and youth. Captain Shai Hope, one of the most consistent batters in world cricket, will continue to lead the side. Alongside him are reliable names like Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Jayden Seales, and Sherfane Rutherford, who have all been regular members of the West Indies limited-overs setup.
The complete squad for the New Zealand ODIs includes:
Shai Hope (capt), Alick Athanaze, Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Johann Layne, Khary Pierre, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, and Shamar Springer.
Speaking about the selection, West Indies fans have shown excitement over the inclusion of both new and returning players. The team will hope that this combination of experience and youth will help them improve their recent performances in limited-overs cricket.
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The ODI series will also serve as a chance for West Indies to bounce back from their T20I series defeat against New Zealand. In the recently concluded five-match T20I series, the Windies managed to win the first game but lost the next two encounters. The fourth T20I was abandoned due to rain, while the fifth and final match was comfortably won by New Zealand, giving the hosts the series victory.
The Black Caps showed consistency and strong performances in the T20Is, while West Indies struggled with both bat and ball in crucial moments. The upcoming ODIs will therefore be a fresh opportunity for the Caribbean side to regroup and regain confidence.
Under the guidance of head coach Daren Sammy, the team has been focusing on developing a core group of players who can deliver in both shorter formats. The ODIs against New Zealand will provide a testing ground for that strategy.
John Campbell’s inclusion could also bring a sense of stability at the top of the batting order. His experience in facing the new ball, combined with his ability to accelerate when needed, makes him a valuable addition. Alongside players like Hope, Chase, and Rutherford, Campbell’s role will be crucial in giving the team strong starts.
For West Indies, the upcoming ODI series is not just about winning matches—it’s about finding the right balance in their squad. After missing qualification for the 2023 ODI World Cup, the Caribbean team has been undergoing a period of rebuilding. The focus has shifted to identifying consistent performers who can form the backbone of the team for the next few years.
The inclusion of young players like Johann Layne and Shamar Springer reflects that strategy. The team management believes that giving new talents international exposure early will help build a stronger side for future tournaments.
Meanwhile, experienced campaigners like Shai Hope and Roston Chase will be expected to guide the younger players. Hope’s captaincy has been calm and composed, and his leadership during this transition phase is considered vital.
As the series begins in Christchurch on November 16, all eyes will be on how the team performs under pressure. West Indies fans will be hoping that Campbell’s return sparks a turnaround in their fortunes, while the young players will look to make their mark on the international stage.
If the team can combine experience with youthful energy, the series could mark the beginning of a promising new chapter for West Indies cricket.
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