Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced the full-strength squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, which will be played from November 5 to 13. The Men in Maroon will face New Zealand after a thrilling T20I series win over Bangladesh as they continue their preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
The CWI selectors retained the core group from the Bangladesh series to ensure stability and balance in the team. One of the biggest positives for the men in maroon is the return of all-rounder Matthew Ford, who is making a comeback after recovering from a shoulder injury.
West Indies announce full strength squad for New Zealand T20 series
Ford has completed his rehabilitation and return to action program and is now fully fit to take the field for the West Indies. His inclusion will be a big boost to the West Indies pace attack, which has suffered a number of injuries in recent months.
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Additionally, Shamar Springer has also been called into the squad to further strengthen the seam-bowling department for the upcoming T20I series against the Black Caps. Springer was recalled to the team after Ramon Simmons and Jedediah Blades were ruled out of the tour with injuries.
Springer will provide more options and energy to the bowling lineup as West Indies prepare to face New Zealand in difficult conditions.
Gudakesh Moti will be out of New Zealand tour due to bowling action
Meanwhile, left-arm spinner Gudakesh Moti will miss the tour due to poor form due to a technical issue with his bowling action.
Moti will now work closely with spin experts through Royals Sports Group – owners of the Paarl Royals franchise in South Africa – to correct his action and regain confidence.
CWI took the decision to prepare Moti for the SA20 League in December and the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, where he is expected to play a key role for the West Indies.
CWI appoints Chrisann Hurdle as mental skills and performance coach ahead of New Zealand tour
Meanwhile, CWI has also appointed clinical psychologist Krishan Hurdle as its new mental skills and performance coach. Hurdle will start his tenure with the New Zealand tour. His appointment was finalized during the emergency cricket strategy and officiating committee meeting held in August.
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Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe has stressed that the move will play a vital role in ensuring that the team is mentally prepared for the major tournaments ahead.
Bascombe said, “The addition of a mental skills and performance coach reflects our commitment to developing the complete cricketer. At the elite level, success is as much about mindset and composure as it is technical ability.”
“Strengthening this area ensures that our players are provided with the non-technical support they need to manage pressure and maintain focus.”
West Indies squad for New Zealand T20I:
Shai Hope (captain), Alec Athanazé, Akeem Auguste, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Amir Zangu, Brandon King, Khary Pierre, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer.
