West Indies selects 15 players for the India tour, with Chanderpaul making a return to the Test squad
The West Indies cricket team is all set for their first overseas challenge of the new ICC World Test Championship cycle, as they prepare to take on India in a two-Test series starting from October 2. The team, led by head coach Daren Sammy and Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, has named a 15-member squad for the tour, marking their first red-ball tour of India since 2018.
Daren Sammy, a former West Indies cricket captain and current head coach, will be leading the team. Known for his coaching roles in all formats and in white-ball cricket, Sammy has been instrumental in the team's performances during their tours, including their successful tours to India. Under his leadership, the West Indies team won two T20 World Cup titles as captain.
The team management, with Sammy at the helm, has picked the squad with Indian conditions in mind. Roston Chase will captain the team, with Jomel Warrican serving as vice-captain. The top order is expected to be bolstered by the addition of Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Alick Athanaze, who are expected to provide stability.
The first Test will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from October 2 to 6. The second Test will take place at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi from October 10 to 14.
Gudakesh Motie has been rested for this series to manage his workload ahead of a demanding limited-overs schedule, including the T20 World Cup early next year. Khary Pierre has been chosen as the second specialist spinner due to his standout performances in the West Indies Championship.
The aim of this tour is not only to compete against India but also to build depth and continuity in the Test setup for West Indies. The team will depart the Caribbean on September 22 and arrive in Ahmedabad on September 24, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.
