Hetmyer, Alzarri among returning stars in West Indies ODI squad

West Indies have announced their squad for the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka, marking the return of several key players.

Squad: Shai Hope (c), Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Shimron Hetmyer, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Shamar Springer

Led by Shai Hope, the 15-member squad includes Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales, as well as Shimron Hetmyer. Alzarri's prolonged absence was attributed to a back injury he sustained last year, while Motie also missed out on the New Zealand tour last year. Seales and Shamar have had their workloads managed by Cricket West Indies, but both make the cut. Seales was the top ODI wicket-taker for WI on the NZ tour, while Shamar missed it due to a shoulder issue.

Hetmyer's return is the most notable among the inclusions. He last played an ODI in June 2025 but makes a comeback following a successful T20 World Cup 2026, where he hit 248 runs at 41.33, striking at 186.46. A statement by Cricket West Indies said that Hetmyer's reintegration was "part of CWI's strategic build-up towards the 50-Over World Cup in October and November next year".

However, his recent form in the IPL might be of concern, having not crossed 22 in the eight times he batted for Rajasthan Royals.

Head coach Daren Sammy said: "In our desire to make home a fortress in ODI cricket, I want the team to win moments consistently rather than relying on individual brilliance which we have stressed for the last 18 months."

It is worth noting that West Indies are on an unbeaten streak at home, having won their last five consecutive series. It will also be a crucial series in West Indies' quest to automatically qualify for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

The three ODIs, starting June 3, will all be played at the Sabina Park in Jamaica.