Joseph’s rest extended as Shepherd returns to WI squad for Pakistan ODIs

Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph’s rest has been extended to manage his workload, while all-rounder Romario Shepherd makes a return to West Indies’ ODI squad for the three-match ODI series against Pakistan, starting at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Thursday.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) said the core of 15-member squad remains unchanged from recent victories over England, Bangladesh and on tour in the United Kingdom, as they bid for a fourth consecutive home ODI series win.

Following the series opener on Aug.8, the next two matches will be played on Aug.10 and 12.

West Indies had recently lost T20I series to Pakistan by 2-1, with all games held at the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, Florida. It was also the seventh successive time Pakistan won a T20I series against the West Indies.

The series against Pakistan is the part of the build-up towards the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup. Head coach Daren Sammy said the series against Pakistan would be another chance to strengthen their ODI unit and continue the momentum held from the last 18 months.

“Pakistan presents a different test and challenge as we continue our push for automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup. While qualifying is our immediate goal, maintaining a winning mentality and team cohesion is essential for long-term success.”

“The upcoming matches against teams like Pakistan, who are ranked higher, provide crucial opportunities to earn valuable ranking points to improve our standing ahead of the World Cup,” he said.

Earlier, Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub combined for a 138 opening partnership and Pakistan defeated the West Indies by 13 runs to capture their T20 International Series. Pakistan won the series opener by 14 runs but dropped the second match by two wickets to set up a Sunday night.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, Pakistan were rewarded with a powerhouse performance by Farhan and Ayub. Pakistan went 189 for four as Farhan hammered the hosts for 74 runs on 53 balls, smashing five sixes and three fours, while Ayub lasted 19 overs, finishing on 66 from 49 balls with two sixes and four fours.

Farhan was caught by West Indies captain Shai Hope at long off from a delivery by Shamar Joseph on the second ball of the 17th over. Hasan Nawaz entered but was retired after only 15 runs, caught by Romario Shepherd at long off from a delivery by Roston Chase on the penultimate ball of the 18th over.

Agencies