West Indies Revitalize Squad with Chanderpaul and Athanaze for India Tests

Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Alick Athanaze have been recalled to the West Indies Test squad for the upcoming two-Test series in India starting on October 2. Khary Pierre, a left-arm spinner, has been selected for his maiden Test appearance.

Following a disheartening 3-0 series loss to Australia at home, which ended with the team being bowled out for just 27 in the final Test’s second innings, Cricket West Indies convened an urgent meeting of its Cricket Strategy Committee, including cricket legends Clive Lloyd, Viv Richards, and Brian Lara. Although both the team and CWI faced considerable backlash after that series, it seems they’ve opted for a measured response regarding team adjustments.

“Our squad selection process remains strategic and thoughtful. We evaluate our opponents, expected playing conditions, and the necessary skills to succeed against particular teams. Player selection is therefore influenced not only by recent performances but also by identifying who within our pool is best equipped to achieve positive outcomes on these surfaces against this level of opposition,” said Miles Bascombe, Director of Cricket.

“Meanwhile, we are focused on fostering continuity and depth in our Test squad as we aim to compete consistently throughout this World Test Championship cycle,” he added.

Former captain Kraigg Brathwaite, along with Mikyle Louis, Keacy Carty, and Johann Layne, has been omitted from the squad, while Gudakesh Motie is rested to manage his workload. Pierre, selected due to his impressive performances in the West Indies Championship, is expected to support Roston Chase and Jomel Warrican in Motie’s absence.

“The inclusion of Tagenarine Chanderpaul aims to enhance our top-order performance given recent challenges, while Alick Athanaze strengthens our capabilities against spin bowling. Khary’s first-time inclusion provides us with a second spin option in expected conducive conditions,” commented head coach Darren Sammy.

West Indies squad: Roston Chase (C), Jomel Warrican (VC), Kevlon Anderson, Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Anderson Phillip, Khary Pierre, Jayden Seales