The Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced a 13-member squad for the upcoming first Test match against India, scheduled for July 12. However, star all-rounder Kyle Mayers will be absent from the team due to his recent involvement in the ICC World Cup Qualifier 2023. In his place, batters Kirk McKenzie and Alick Athanaze have received their maiden call-ups, while all-rounder Rakheem Cornwall returns to the Test team after a significant period.
Following their disappointment in failing to qualify for the ICC World Cup 2023, West Indies will shift their focus to red-ball cricket for a two-match Test series against India. Notably, star all-rounder Jason Holder and pacer Alzarri Joseph have been recalled from the ICC Qualifier to join the squad. The duo had previously missed the last game against Sri Lanka, which West Indies lost by eight wickets.
Kyle Mayers, featured in West Indies’ previous Test outings against South Africa in February 2021, will be missed. Mayers had displayed an impressive performance, taking six wickets across two innings in the last Test match against South Africa. The team will also welcome the return of spin all-rounder Rakheem Cornwall, who is included for the first time since November 2021. Additionally, left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican makes a comeback, replacing the injured Gudakesh Motie.
The Test debut of Alick Athanaze and Kirk McKenzie is on the cards for the first match, as both players showcased remarkable performances during the West Indies A team tour of Bangladesh. Desmond Haynes, the lead selector, admired the duo’s batting approach and maturity, stating that they deserve to represent the team in Test cricket.