Mon Jan 26 ’26
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced the 15-member squad that will participate in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, to be played in India and Sri Lanka from February 6 to March 9.
The selection follows an extensive assessment period and is aimed at assembling a group capable of competing consistently at the highest level while adapting to the unique demands of subcontinental conditions.
Head Coach Daren Sammy, who captained the region to its most recent victories in 2012 and 2016, said the squad reflects careful planning and a clear understanding of what it takes to succeed at the global event.
“We’ve selected a squad with poise, extensive experience and a touch of mystery. We’ve got X-factor where it counts, hungry newcomers pushing the seasoned heads, and a group ready to fight to make the region proud.”
“We have thought long and hard about what it will take to win in India and Sri Lanka, and we have found the best team to help us achieve that goal, and I am confident we will do so,” he added.
West Indies squad for the ICC T20 World Cup
Shai Hope (c), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd
Gudakesh Motie returns to the squad with renewed confidence after completing a development period in South Africa ahead of and during the SA20.
Johnson Charles has been selected as the side’s back-up wicketkeeper, with the selectors noting that with the available player pool, his international experience and proven powerplay abilities also provide valuable opening cover. Quentin Sampson has also been included as a mid-range option.
Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph continues his return to the game after injury. Although he has made significant progress, he has not yet been cleared for intensive competition and will continue to work closely with the CWI medical and performance teams.
Captain Shai Hope spoke about the opportunity to represent the region on the world stage and expressed confidence in the group as they look to make a deep run in the tournament.
“World Cups are special and as a player you want to play on the biggest stages possible,” he said.
“This is an experienced group of players, and we are no strangers to playing in these conditions. We have enough strength and skill in the batting and quality bowlers who can adapt to the conditions on any given day to help us compete and win matches consistently.”
The squad has gathered in South Africa from January 27 to 31 for the three matches of the T20I series against the Proteas, which will serve as their final preparation for the opening matches of the T20 World Cup.
Gudakesh Motie returns to the squad with renewed confidence after completing a development period in South Africa ahead of and during the SA20.
Johnson Charles has been selected as the side’s back-up wicketkeeper, with the selectors noting that with the available player pool, his international experience and proven powerplay abilities also provide valuable opening cover. Quentin Sampson has also been included as a mid-range option.
Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph continues his return to the game after injury. Although he has made significant progress, he has not yet been cleared for intensive competition and will continue to work closely with the CWI medical and performance teams.
Captain Shai Hope spoke about the opportunity to represent the region on the world stage and expressed confidence in the group as they look to make a deep run in the tournament.
“World Cups are special and as a player you want to play on the biggest stages possible,” he said.
“This is an experienced group of players, and we are no strangers to playing in these conditions. We have enough strength and skill in the batting and quality bowlers who can adapt to the conditions on any given day to help us compete and win matches consistently.”
The squad has gathered in South Africa from January 27 to 31 for the three matches of the T20I series against the Proteas, which will serve as final preparation for the opening matches of the T20 World Cup.
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