With the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 gradually coming into view, the West Indies are gearing up for a crucial three-match ODI series against Pakistan, starting August 8 in Trinidad. The hosts announced their 15-member squad following their recent T20I series, as they look to gather momentum and ranking points to secure automatic qualification for the next World Cup.
The series presents a significant opportunity for the Caribbean side, who currently sit 10th in the ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings, to make a statement against a top-tier side. Pakistan, ranked fourth, will be a formidable challenge—but one that the Windies are eager to embrace, especially on home soil.
Fresh Faces and Familiar Names in West Indies Squad
The squad, led by Shai Hope, features a blend of emerging talent and returning experience, with the most notable comeback being Romario Shepherd, the dynamic all-rounder who returns to the ODI setup for the first time since the Bangladesh series in 2023. His power-hitting and seam bowling offer valuable balance to the side.
Another promising inclusion is Jewel Andrew, the 18-year-old wicketkeeper-batter who made his ODI debut against Sri Lanka last year. Andrew retains his spot after also featuring in the England series earlier this summer, highlighting the selectors’ growing faith in his long-term potential.
Jediah Blades, the left-arm quick who debuted against Bangladesh in 2024, also earns a recall, bringing youthful pace and left-arm variety to the bowling lineup. Meanwhile, Amir Jangoo, who marked his ODI debut with a memorable century against Bangladesh, keeps his place after playing against Ireland in May.
Full West Indies Squad:
Shai Hope (c), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd
Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the value of continuity and development within this group, noting that while youth features prominently, the focus is firmly on building a winning culture.
Coach Daren Sammy: “Pakistan Series Is a Crucial Test”
Coming off a 2-1 loss to Pakistan in the T20I series, Sammy and his staff are looking at the ODIs as a different, more strategic challenge. The former captain, who is now fully entrenched in his role as head coach, sees this as a stepping stone toward the team’s broader ambitions.
“Pakistan presents a different test and challenge as we continue our push for automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup,” Sammy said.
“While qualifying is our immediate goal, maintaining a winning mentality and team cohesion is essential for long-term success.”
The West Indies’ recent ODI form has been mixed, but performances against higher-ranked teams like Pakistan could significantly affect their standing in the ICC rankings. Each match is not only about winning the series but also about gaining critical ranking points that will feed directly into qualification calculations.
“The upcoming matches against teams like Pakistan, who are ranked higher, provide crucial opportunities to earn valuable ranking points to improve our standing ahead of the World Cup,” Sammy added.
With the next World Cup to be held on African soil—in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia—the West Indies are desperate to avoid the qualification heartbreak they experienced ahead of the 2023 edition in India. Automatic qualification would not only ensure their participation but allow them to plan long-term with greater clarity and confidence.
A Packed Schedule and Home Advantage in Trinidad
All three matches of the ODI series will be played in Trinidad, offering West Indies the advantage of familiar conditions and home support. For many players, it will also be a test of consistency and adaptability against a well-rounded and often unpredictable Pakistan outfit.
ODI Series Schedule:
1st ODI – August 8, Trinidad
2nd ODI – August 10, Trinidad
3rd ODI – August 12, Trinidad
In addition to chasing qualification, the series is also about player development. With experienced names like Shai Hope, Brandon King, and Roston Chase anchoring the batting order, the younger generation will have ample support and mentorship as they continue to integrate into the senior setup.
Pakistan’s own lineup is expected to feature many established stars, offering the West Indies a valuable benchmark for where they stand ahead of more white-ball series later this year.
As the countdown to the 2027 World Cup begins in earnest, the upcoming ODI series is more than a bilateral contest—it’s a test of readiness, strategy, and growth for a West Indies team that is determined to return to the global stage with purpose and pride.