The West Indies have made a strategic move by calling up teenage left-arm wrist spinner Vitel Lawes for their upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. This decision is part of their long-term vision to expose players who can complement the team in conditions that best suit their skill sets, according to head coach Daren Sammy. Lawes, who has been training with the senior side since the preparatory camp, is a standout performer with 10 wickets and the most dot balls in the ICC Under-19 World Cup this year. His inclusion is seen as a strategic move to continue the team's improvement and win more matches for the Caribbean people.
The squad for the Guyana leg of the series includes a mix of experienced players and newcomers. Spin-bowling coach Nikita Miller has been added to the team management to aid Lawes' transition into international cricket. The squad retains the core that featured in the recent ODI series against Sri Lanka, with a few changes. Shimron Hetmyer is unavailable due to Major League Cricket commitments, and all-rounder Shamar Springer withdrew following the passing of his mother. Keemo Paul, who was recently drafted into the Test squad, replaces Springer in the ODI outfit.
The West Indies view the New Zealand series as a crucial part of their build-up to the 2027 ODI World Cup. Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the importance of every series leading up to the World Cup, stating that they are viewed as must-win scenarios. The matches against New Zealand provide an opportunity to improve as an ODI unit and win more matches for the Caribbean people.
The squad will assemble in Guyana on July 8 after the conclusion of the Test series against Sri Lanka in Antigua. The team management will communicate any changes for the final two games of the series later. The West Indies' ODI squad for the Guyana leg includes Shai Hope (c), Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Vitel Lawes, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Sherfane Rutherford, and Jayden Seales.
