West Indies announce squad for ODIs vs New Zealand, young spinner gets entry without playing single domestic cricket game

Cricket West Indies (CWI) on July 7 announced the 15-member squad for the Guyana leg of the five-ODI series at home against New Zealand starting later this week. West Indies have handed maiden call-up to the 19-year-old left-arm wrist spinner, Vitel Lawes, who is yet to make his debut in domestic cricket. Lawes had represented West Indies in Under-19 World Cup where he bagged 10 wickets and bowled most dot balls.

“The inclusion of Vitel Lawes is strategic as we continue our long-term vision of exposing players who can complement the team in conditions that best suit their skill sets,” head coach Daren Sammy said.

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Players missing from the squad

Shimron Hetmyer has been excused from the ODI series as he will fulfill his commitment to Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket (MLC). All-rounder Shamar Springer has withdrawn from the series after his mother's death.

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All-rounder returns after 3 years

All-rounder Keemo Paul has returned to the squad after a long absence. Paul was added to the Test squad as well to replace Springer. Paul's last ODI appearance was in 2023 against Oman in World Cup 2023 qualifiers. The 28-year-old has played 30 ODIs, scoring 320 runs, averaging 21.33. His high score in ODIs is 46 not out. With the ball, he has 34 wickets, averaging 36.41.

Meanwhile, former left-arm spinner Nikita Miller has been added to the coaching staff for the first three ODIs.

West Indies ODI squad for New Zealand series -

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, Jayden Seales.

Lot at stake for West Indies

West Indies remain 10th in the ICC ODI rankings. They will look to move up before the cut off date to finish in top eight and earn automatic qualification into ODI World Cup 2027.

West Indies have lost their last three ODI series. They had toured New Zealand late into 2025 and did not win a single game in the three-ODI series.