Cricket West Indies (CWI) on November 2 announced their 15-member squad for the five-T20I series against New Zealand. The notable exclusion is left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie. CWI in a statement said that Motie has been dropped due to a dip in form. Also, the spinner will work on his bowling action which has a technical issue. He remains in contention for a spot in the squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 on Indian soil.
“Gudakesh Motie has been excluded from the series following a dip in form and will undertake targeted, technical training in collaboration with the Royals Sports Group ahead of his participation in the SA20 and in preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup,” CWI said in a statement.
Matthew Forde has been recalled to the squad after he regained fitness following a shoulder injury. Also, pacer Shamar Springer has been included as West Indies are missing the services of injured pacers Ramon Simmonds and Jediah Blades.
Shamar Joseph continues to be sidelined after he complained of discomfort in his shoulder while training on Bangladesh tour.
West Indies’ squad for T20I series vs New Zealand -
Shai Hope (c), Alick Athanaze, Ackeem Auguste, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Amir Jangoo, Brandon King, Khary Pierre, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer.
New addition to team management
CWI has added a Clinical Physchologist, Krisnan Hurdle to the team management. He will join as Mental Skills and Performance coach, beginning with New Zealand tour. West Indies' Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe said that it is a strategic move to help players deal with pressure and remain focused on the game.
“The addition of a Mental Skills and Performance Coach reflects our commitment to developing the complete cricketer. At the elite level, success is as much about mindset and composure as it is about technical ability. Strengthening this area ensures that our players are provided with the necessary non-technical support geared towards equipping them to manage pressure and maintain focus.” Bascombe said in an official statement.
The T20I series will begin on November 5 at Eden Park, Auckland. It will be followed by a three-ODI series. West Indies will also play three Tests on the tour. They are yet to get their first points in the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle. They suffered whitewash against Australia and India.