West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has emphasized that veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach was never excluded from the team’s long-term plans, despite earlier suggestions of a transition to younger players. Roach, 37, has been recalled to the 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand, scheduled from December 1 to 21. His inclusion comes as a result of injuries to key bowlers Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph, who are sidelined for the remainder of the year. Roach, who made his Test debut in 2008, boasts an impressive record of 284 wickets in 85 Tests, placing him fifth among West Indies’ all-time leading wicket-takers in the format. Sammy highlighted Roach’s experience and leadership as crucial assets for the team, particularly in New Zealand’s challenging conditions. The squad also features uncapped Jamaican pacer Ojay Shields, whose raw pace adds variety to the attack. Despite earlier comments from Cricket West Indies director Miles Bascombe about planning for future World Test Championships, Sammy clarified that Roach remained a viable option. The West Indies are currently struggling in the white-ball segment of their New Zealand tour, having lost the T20 series 3-1 and trailing 2-0 in the ODI series. Sammy expressed optimism about the Test series, citing the team’s preparation and the return of middle-order batsman Kavem Hodge, who has previously excelled in similar conditions. The squad will play a warm-up match in Christchurch before the first Test begins on December 1.