Cricket West Indies has unveiled a 16-player squad for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against Afghanistan, set to commence on January 19 at the Dubai Cricket International Stadium. The selection features a notable return for veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Johnson Charles, who at 37 years old brings extensive experience from his participation in two World T20 championship victories (2012 and 2016).
The series serves as critical preparation ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup beginning February 6, with the final tournament squad to be announced following this Afghanistan encounter and preceding a subsequent series against South Africa.
Charles returns to familiar UAE conditions following an impressive performance in the recently concluded International League T20, where he accumulated 244 runs for Sharjah Warriors. His most recent innings against Afghanistan produced a solid 43 runs at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.
The squad sees several significant changes due to conflicting commitments and strategic rest periods. Regular captain Shai Hope, along with established players Roston Chase, Akeal Hosein, and Sherfane Rutherford, remain unavailable due to participation in the ongoing SA20 tournament. Their absence has prompted the appointment of Brandon King as captain for the series.
Notable inclusions feature the maiden international call-up for Quentin Sampson, recognized as the Breakout Player of the 2025 Caribbean Premier League. He replaces rested players Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, and Romario Shepherd as part of Cricket West Indies’ workload management strategy.
The selection also marks the return of fast bowler Shamar Joseph and batsman Evin Lewis, both having successfully completed return-to-play protocols following injury recoveries.
Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the dual purpose of the series, stating: ‘These competitive matches in subcontinental conditions provide ideal preparation for confidence building ahead of the World Cup. Simultaneously, they offer a valuable platform to reassess players returning from extended absences and those stepping into new roles before final tournament selection.’
The squad will depart the Caribbean on January 14, coinciding with Charles’ birthday, with arrival in the UAE scheduled for January 16 ahead of the series opener.