Shimron Hetmyer returns to Windies’ squad to take on Bangladesh in a two-Test series, it was announced on Monday (July 2). Keemo Paul, the right-arm pacer, who had replaced him for the Sri Lanka series, retained his place in the squad, while the only change was uncapped reserve-wicketkeeper Jahmar Hamilton missing out.
Alzarri Joseph, who took four wickets against Bangladesh in their warm-up fixture, didn’t find a place in the 13-man squad. Hetmyer was forced out of Windies’ last Test against Sri Lanka due to illness, and had not featured in the XI in the first two Tests of the three-match series that Windies drew 1-1 with Sri Lanka. But in the two-day warm-up against Bangladesh, he roared his way back into contention with a stellar 123.
Squad: Jason Holder (c), Devendra Bishoo, Kraigg Brathwaite, Roston Chase, Miguel Cummins, Shane Dowrich (wk), Shannon Gabriel, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope, Keemo Paul, Kieran Powell, Kemar Roach, Devon Smith
The West Indies selection panel “expects to see a greater effort from the top 5 batters and see them return to the focus and discipline we know they are capable of in the upcoming series against Bangladesh. After some very competitive cricket against ICC 6th ranked Sri Lanka that ended in a one all draw. We congratulate the team on a drawn series but recognized that victory was within our reach. The Selection panel also acknowledge and commend the strong performances of captain Jason Holder, Shannon Gabriel and man of the series Shane Dowrich.”
Bangladesh, at No.8, are currently ahead of Windies in the Test rankings, who are at No.9. Bangladesh can only consolidate their position if they win the series, but if they draw, they can retain their eighth spot.
The first Test will be played in Antigua from July 4, while Kingston will host the second and final Test starting on July 12.
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