In a significant development for West Indies cricket, the Caribbean team’s T20 World Cup prospects have received a substantial uplift with confirmation that pace spearheads Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph are progressing optimally toward full fitness for the upcoming global tournament.
Dr. Donovan Bennett, Head of Cricket West Indies’ Medical Panel, delivered an encouraging assessment on January 6th, particularly highlighting Shamar Joseph’s remarkable recovery from a shoulder injury that had sidelined him since September. “The latest that I saw on Shamar is that he is fit and ready to go,” Dr. Bennett affirmed. “He was bowling pretty fast, in the 140s (kph) without any discomfort.”
This medical update concludes an anxious period for West Indies supporters, as Shamar missed both the Test tour of India and the ongoing ODI series against Bangladesh. His rehabilitation journey included specialized consultation in England, which has yielded successful outcomes.
Meanwhile, Alzarri Joseph, who missed the India Tests with a lower-back concern, is following a slightly delayed but positive recovery trajectory. Dr. Bennett confirmed: “Alzarri has resumed return-to-play protocols and is currently hitting his required fitness targets. Based on what I am seeing, both of them should be ready for the World Cup.”
The return of both pacemen, who last competed in September 2025, substantially bolsters the West Indies’ bowling arsenal ahead of the prestigious event. CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow disclosed that a provisional squad has already been selected, with the final 15-player roster to be formally ratified following the West Indies’ T20I series against Afghanistan in India from January 18-22.
Subsequent preparations will include a three-match T20I tour of South Africa in late January. The two-time champions will commence their World Cup campaign in Kolkata on February 7 against Bangladesh, competing in Group C alongside England, Nepal, and Italy.