LSG’s Nicholas Pooran asks for rest as Andre Russell returns in West Indies’ squad for England T20Is

West Indies have named a strong squad for their upcoming three-match T20I series against England, set to begin on June 6. Explosive all-rounder Andre Russell and seasoned pacer Jason Holder return to the fold, while Nicholas Pooran has asked to be rested following a demanding Indian Premier League (IPL) season with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).

Pooran, who played a pivotal role in LSG’s campaign, will sit out both the England and Ireland legs of the tour. His absence opens the door for other batters to step up under the leadership of new T20I captain Shai Hope, who replaces Rovman Powell at the helm. Powell, however, retains his place in the squad and will play in both the upcoming T20I assignments.

One eye on WI vs AUS Tests

Sherfane Rutherford also makes his return to the squad after missing the Bangladesh series due to Big Bash League (BBL) commitments. Meanwhile, Keacy Carty and debutant Jyd Goolie have been included for the Ireland T20Is, replacing Brandon King and Roston Chase respectively. Chase, West Indies’ new Test captain, will leave after the England leg to join the red-ball camp ahead of the Australia series. Australia travels the Caribbean islands for three Tests and five T20Is next month.

Coaching duties will also see a reshuffle. Head coach Daren Sammy and his key assistants will return home post the England series to oversee preparations for the Test series, with Rayon Griffith taking charge for the Ireland T20Is.

West Indies T20I squad to play England: 

Shai Hope (capt), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd

West Indies T20I squad to play Ireland: 

Shai Hope (capt), Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Matthew Forde, Jyd Goolie, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd

West Indies T20I schedule