Carib Scope

标签： Saint Kitts and Nevis

圣基茨和尼维斯

  • Police Charge Two in Separate Incidents

    Police Charge Two in Separate Incidents

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — In two distinct law enforcement actions across the Federation of St. Christopher and Nevis, two local residents have been taken into custody and formally charged on separate criminal counts, Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) officials confirmed this week.

    The first case unfolded on July 8, 2026, when officers from the RSCNPF’s specialized Special Victims Unit executed an arrest warrant for Deslyn Prentice-Mullings, a resident of Camella Hancock Street in Ponds Pasture, at the Basseterre Police Station. Prentice-Mullings now faces three separate criminal charges: battery against a serving police officer, obstruction of justice, and use of indecent language in the incident.

    Following the filing of these charges, the RSCNPF issued a public statement reaffirming the critical role of public cooperation in law enforcement work. The force emphasized that uniformed officers carry out their official duties to preserve public order, protect community safety, and enforce the rule of law across both islands, and that compliant engagement with police during lawful operations is a foundational expectation for all residents.

    In an unrelated investigation out of Nevis, officers from the Nevis Division of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) have brought charges against Joel Taylor, a Bath Village resident, for housebreaking and larceny. Taylor was arrested on July 7, 2026, at the Newcastle Police Station while executing a warrant connected to the case. The charges trace back to a break-in and theft reported at Royal Electronics, a retail business located on Main Street in Charlestown, Nevis, which occurred on June 30, 2026.

    As of Thursday afternoon, police have not released additional details about bail status or upcoming court appearances for either defendant.

  • TDC Supports Community Mural Project in partnership with The Caribbean Foundation for Children and the Charlestown Secondary School

    TDC Supports Community Mural Project in partnership with The Caribbean Foundation for Children and the Charlestown Secondary School

    CHARLESTOWN, Nevis – July 9, 2026 – A vibrant new public art piece, dubbed *Floral Elegance*, is bringing new life to downtown Charlestown thanks to a collaborative community initiative bringing together three partners: the St. Kitts Nevis Anguilla Trading and Development Company Limited (TDC Group), The Caribbean Foundation for Children, and the arts department of Charlestown Secondary School.

    Led by experienced art teacher Ashira Hanley, the project centers on student artists from the secondary school’s arts program, who are designing and painting the large-scale mural along a public wall on Main Street. Far more than just a beautification effort, the initiative is built to nurture the next generation of local creators, turning ordinary public spaces into dynamic showcases for Nevisian creativity, cultural identity, and collective civic pride. For participating students, the project offers a rare chance to translate classroom-learned artistic skills into a tangible, public contribution that will benefit the entire community for years to come.

    Ernie France, Head of TDC’s Nevis Operations, emphasized the company’s core belief that supporting youth development requires opportunities that extend beyond traditional school boundaries. “Projects like this do more than build artistic skills,” France explained. “They encourage creative thinking, build collaboration and teamwork, and help young people develop a true sense of ownership over their community. We are incredibly proud to partner with The Caribbean Foundation for Children and Charlestown Secondary School to bring this inspiring vision to fruition.”

    Michael Henville, chair of the foundation’s Nevis Chapter, expressed gratitude for TDC’s material and strategic support, noting that corporate community partnerships are critical to expanding hands-on learning opportunities for local students. “Real-world projects like this mural transform arts education from a classroom lesson into an immersive, meaningful experience,” Henville said. TDC’s contribution of high-quality paint and all necessary painting supplies has removed financial barriers that would have otherwise prevented the project from moving forward. That support, he added, will not only inspire emerging artistic innovation and nurture young local talent, but also make a lasting contribution to Nevis’ social and cultural development.

    The collaborative mural project is fully aligned with TDC’s longstanding institutional mission: to contribute meaningfully to the economic, social, and cultural advancement of the nation. The work was scheduled for completion the same day the announcement was made, July 9, 2026, and is already drawing attention from residents and visitors who pass through the heart of Charlestown.

  • Winair Unveils First Aircraft in Special 65th Anniversary Livery

    Winair Unveils First Aircraft in Special 65th Anniversary Livery

    SIMPSON BAY, St. Maarten – July 8, 2026 – A landmark moment for Caribbean regional aviation took place this week, as Windward Islands Airways International (Winair) unveiled the first aircraft in its fleet wrapped in a custom 65th anniversary livery, officially kicking off a 12-month celebration of the carrier’s six-and-a-half decades of connecting communities across the region.

    The commemorative design, applied to one of the airline’s ATR aircraft, features custom anniversary decals that honor the carrier’s historic milestone while reinforcing its longstanding promise to deliver safe, consistent regional air connectivity across the Caribbean. The special branding will be rolled out across the entire Winair fleet gradually over the coming months, turning every flight into a moving tribute to the airline’s legacy that stretches back to its founding in 1961, allowing passengers across its route network to share in the celebration.

    Over 65 years of operation, Winair has grown from a small regional startup into one of the Caribbean’s most influential and enduring airlines, serving as a critical lifeline linking dozens of island communities. Beyond simply moving passengers, the carrier supports nearly every core sector of regional life: from powering tourism growth and enabling cross-border business to facilitating access to critical healthcare services, connecting students to educational opportunities, and keeping geographically separated family members in touch. Today, it operates an extensive island network from its Princess Juliana International Airport hub and maintains key strategic partnerships with major global airlines to offer seamless connections between the Caribbean and the rest of the world.

    As the national airline of St. Maarten, Winair has left an indelible mark on regional economic development. The carrier employs hundreds of local aviation professionals, sustains thousands of indirect jobs across supporting local businesses, and provides the essential air connectivity that attracts foreign investment, enables regional trade, and strengthens cross-island cooperation. Industry analysts note the carrier’s ongoing work remains a core driver of sustainable growth and economic resilience for every island it serves.

    “Watching our first 65th anniversary branded aircraft take to the skies is an incredibly emotional moment for every person who has ever been part of the Winair family,” said Winair Chief Executive Officer Hans van de Velde in a statement marking the launch. “This 65-year milestone isn’t just about how much time has passed. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of generations of Winair employees, the unwavering loyalty of our passengers, and the trust our regional and international partners have placed in us for decades.”

    van de Velde added that the airline is equally proud of its longstanding role in supporting economic progress across St. Maarten and its neighboring islands. “As we mark 65 years of connecting the Caribbean, we remain focused on investing in our future while continuing to deliver the reliable, high-quality service our customers have come to count on from us,” he said.

    The unveiling of the commemorative aircraft is just the first of dozens of anniversary initiatives planned throughout the year. Passengers and community members can expect a full calendar of celebrations, limited-time promotional campaigns, local community engagement activities, and industry events that highlight Winair’s outsized contribution to Caribbean aviation over the past 65 years.

    Looking ahead, the carrier enters its anniversary year with confidence, outlining ongoing investments in expanding its route network, upgrading its fleet, enhancing the customer travel experience, and rolling out innovative service offerings that make regional travel across the Caribbean more accessible and convenient than ever before.

    The launch of the first commemorative aircraft formalizes the start of Winair’s anniversary celebration: a moment that honors the carrier’s foundational legacy, celebrates its present-day role as a regional aviation leader, and reaffirms its commitment to powering the future of connected travel across the Caribbean.

    Founded in 1961, Winair is the oldest continuously operating regional carrier in the Caribbean. It currently serves 17 island destinations from its St. Maarten hub, with a core mission focused on safe, reliable, on-time service that links people, businesses and communities across the region.

  • Destination Spotlight: St. Kitts and Nevis

    Destination Spotlight: St. Kitts and Nevis

    Tucked in the heart of the Caribbean, the twin-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis has emerged as a standout destination for travelers seeking a layered, personalized vacation that blends rich history, untouched natural beauty, and carefully curated luxury—all without the overcrowding that plagues many popular Caribbean getaways. Unlike single-island destinations that force visitors into a one-note travel rhythm, this paired archipelago delivers two distinct, complementary experiences in a single trip, letting adventurers and relaxation seekers alike craft an itinerary that matches their mood.

    On St. Kitts, the larger of the two islands, visitors find a dynamic mix of historic depth and outdoor energy that caters to travelers eager to explore. The island’s capital, Basseterre, strikes a perfect balance between old-world charm and modern vibrancy, with cobblestone historic districts sitting alongside bustling commercial corridors. At Port Zante, the island’s main entry point for cruise and leisure travelers, guests can browse local artisan shops, sample authentic Caribbean street food and fine coastal dining, and immerse themselves in the daily hum of island life.

    One of St. Kitts’ can’t-miss landmarks is Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as one of the most significant historic sites in the entire Caribbean. Built centuries ago during the colonial era, the fortress offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and neighboring islands, alongside walking trails that wind through preserved historic structures. For nature lovers, the dormant Mount Liamuiga volcano offers challenging, rewarding hiking trails through rainforest landscapes, while the iconic St. Kitts Scenic Railway follows the route of 19th-century sugar industry rail lines, carrying passengers through rolling countryside and past sweeping coastal vistas.

    When the sun goes down, the island comes alive at The Strip in Frigate Bay, a popular stretch of beach bars, restaurants, and live music venues that draws both visitors and locals for late-night socializing. Between hiking, sailing on catamarans along the coast, lounging on golden-sand beaches, and exploring historic sites, St. Kitts keeps active travelers engaged from sunrise to sunset.

    A short 45-minute boat ride across a calm channel brings visitors to Nevis, a smaller island that operates at a far gentler pace, designed for travelers looking to disconnect and recharge. Where St. Kitts buzzes with energy, Nevis leans into quiet intimacy and unhurried exploration, making it a haven for anyone seeking escape from the chaos of daily life.

    Nevis’ signature landscape is defined by its lush, green rolling hills, secluded cove beaches, world-class botanical gardens, and deep-rooted Caribbean cultural heritage. Its capital, Charlestown, is a quiet, charming town with preserved colonial architecture, tree-lined historic streets, and a strong sense of local identity that feels untouched by mass tourism. Rising dramatically in the island’s center, Nevis Peak creates one of the most recognizable skyline silhouettes in the entire Caribbean, a constant backdrop for every beach walk and countryside drive.

    For couples planning a romantic retreat, travelers prioritizing wellness and mindfulness, or anyone simply craving a quiet break from busy schedules, Nevis delivers the tranquil, immersive experience many seek from a Caribbean vacation.

    What makes St. Kitts and Nevis such a perfect fit for modern travelers is its intentional contrast. Unlike homogeneous island destinations that offer little variation, this twin-island pairing lets visitors switch between energy and relaxation in the same trip. One day, you can hike a volcanic peak, explore a 17th-century fortress, and dance to live reggae at a beach bar on St. Kitts. The next, you can cross the channel to lounge on a empty secluded beach, wander tropical gardens, and savor slow, farm-to-table meals on Nevis. This flexibility appeals to a wide range of travel styles: it is equally ideal for romantic getaways, cultural history deep dives, wellness retreats, adventure trips, and travelers who prefer smaller, more refined destinations over crowded, commercialized resort hubs.

    As more travelers move beyond the standard all-inclusive beach vacation to seek personalized, varied experiences, St. Kitts and Nevis stands out as a Caribbean gem that delivers the best of all worlds.

  • SG reappointment dispute headed to CCJ

    SG reappointment dispute headed to CCJ

    A long-running regional disagreement over the reappointment of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary-General is now headed for binding interpretive guidance from the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), after regional leaders agreed to pursue the court’s advisory opinion to resolve the deadlock triggered by Trinidad and Tobago’s formal objection.

    The consensus decision was reached during a special retreat of CARICOM Heads of Government, held on July 6 on the sidelines of the bloc’s 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government in Castries, St. Lucia.

    Per an official communiqué released by the 15-nation regional integration body, the government of Trinidad and Tobago has held firm to its opposition to the procedural framework used to advance the Secretary-General’s reappointment, and formally called for the CCJ to weigh in on the matter to clarify relevant treaty provisions. In response, CARICOM leaders voted to launch official proceedings under Article 212 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, the foundational legal document governing the regional bloc, to request the court’s non-binding but authoritative advisory opinion.

    Regional leaders emphasized that treaty interpretation is a core, founding mandate of the CCJ, making the court the appropriate venue to resolve this procedural dispute. Until the CCJ issues its advisory opinion and CARICOM member states complete their review of the ruling, the current interim status of the Secretary-General’s reappointment will remain unchanged, allowing the bloc’s day-to-day operations to continue without interruption.

    CARICOM leaders framed the decision to refer the matter to the CCJ as a deliberate, amicable pathway to resolving intra-regional disagreement. The approach prioritizes adherence to the rule of law within the bloc, rather than allowing the dispute to escalate and disrupt critical regional work.

    In addition to addressing the reappointment dispute, Heads of Government reaffirmed their commitment to a broader ongoing review of CARICOM’s governance structure, a process first authorized during the previous annual conference held in St. Kitts and Nevis. This review forms a central pillar of wider efforts to strengthen regional institutions, boost administrative efficiency, and improve the delivery of benefits to Caribbean populations across member states.

    Leaders explicitly stressed that turning to the CCJ for guidance does not indicate a lack of trust in the integrity of any member state or any individual involved in the reappointment process. Instead, they argued, the move underscores CARICOM’s long-standing commitment to principles of good governance and iterative institutional improvement. The bloc’s leaders also closed by reaffirming their shared commitment to CARICOM’s core mission and goals, pledging to continue collaborative action to advance regional interests even amid the multiple economic, social, and geopolitical challenges facing small island developing states across the Caribbean.

  • St. Kitts breaks ground on Port Zante Cruise Terminal

    St. Kitts breaks ground on Port Zante Cruise Terminal

    On July 8, 2026, St. Kitts hosted a formal groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction on a brand-new cruise terminal at Port Zante, launching a high-stakes infrastructure project that officials say will reshape the island nation’s position in the global cruise tourism market. The event drew a cross-section of key stakeholders, including senior government leaders, senior tourism industry executives, private sector partners, and regional media representatives, all gathering to celebrate the launch of a development designed to elevate St. Kitts and Nevis to the rank of the Caribbean’s premier cruise turnaround ports, with a long-term goal of offering full-scale homeport services.

    For decades, cruise tourism has served as one of the core pillars of St. Kitts’ national economy. Millions of cruise passengers have disembarked at Port Zante over the years, injecting consistent revenue into local small businesses, generating thousands of sustained employment opportunities for island residents, and driving broad-based national development across multiple sectors. The new Port Zante terminal represents a major next step in the destination’s tourism evolution, unlocking pathways to higher visitor spending, extended overnight stays that boost local hospitality revenue, expanded international airlift connections, and far-reaching economic benefits that extend beyond the tourism sector to touch communities across the islands.

    This infrastructure investment is also a cornerstone of the St. Kitts and Nevis government’s broader strategy to build long-term resilience in the cruise tourism sector, insulating the industry from global disruptions and positioning it for sustained growth. Marking a major milestone in the expansion of the country’s cruise services, St. Kitts is scheduled to launch turnaround operations for two P&O Cruises vessels starting in November 2027, a shift that will bring new passenger volumes and revenue to the islands.

    When construction is complete, the upgraded terminal will be outfitted with cutting-edge security screening and digital immigration processing systems, engineered to deliver seamless, fast-track processing for passengers both embarking and disembarking at the port. This development comes as St. Kitts already posts strong cruise passenger numbers, with more than 950,000 cruise travelers expected to visit the destination in the 2025-2026 season.

    In remarks delivered at the groundbreaking ceremony, St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew emphasized that the terminal investment will generate widespread economic benefits that will reach every corner of the country’s tourism industry, regardless of role or sector. “It also advances our vision for a Sustainable Island State: a nation resilient enough, and diversified enough, to not just survive whatever comes our way, but to thrive,” Drew added.

    Once fully operational, the terminal is expected to raise the bar for overall visitor experiences, streamline day-to-day operational efficiencies for cruise lines, and solidify St. Kitts and Nevis’ standing as one of the Caribbean’s leading turnaround and homeport cruise destinations.

  • Breaking: DPP dropping charges against Kollision Band members

    Breaking: DPP dropping charges against Kollision Band members

    BASSETERRE, St Kitts — In a breaking development announced Wednesday afternoon, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) of St. Kitts and Nevis has officially ordered the discontinuation of all criminal proceedings against eight members of the popular local group Kollision Band, closing a high-profile case that ignited fierce public discussion across the federation within days of the charges being filed.

    The eight band members, including the group’s manager, were arrested and charged by the Royal Saint Christopher and Nevis Police Force earlier this month for violating a local regulatory law: performing music on a public roadway without obtaining the required official permission from police authorities. Details of the charges first spread rapidly across social media platforms on Tuesday, July 7, with the public quickly learning the performance in question was an informal jam session held during the funeral procession for a deceased member of the Kollision Band.

    In an official statement released through the Government Information Service, the DPP acknowledged the core mandate of the national police force: upholding public peace, order and safety across the federation, and enforcing existing legislation when violations occur. The statement emphasized that when individuals fail to comply with lawful police directives, law enforcement retains both the legal authority and formal responsibility to launch investigations and file criminal charges when warranted. It also reaffirmed that public compliance with national laws and lawful police instructions is a foundational pillar of a safe, orderly and peaceful society.

    At the same time, the DPP noted that its office exercises an independent constitutional function when deciding whether to move forward with criminal prosecutions. In every case under review, prosecutors must evaluate two critical factors: first, whether there is sufficient evidence to support a criminal conviction, and second, whether continuing the proceeding aligns with the broader public interest.

    After a comprehensive review of all facts and contextual circumstances surrounding the Kollision Band incident, the DPP concluded that proceeding with the prosecution would not serve the public good. Five key factors guided the final decision:
    First, the alleged offense is a low-level regulatory violation that did not involve violence, harm to civilians, or any credible threat to public safety. Second, the unique context of the incident—taking place during a funeral for a band member—required careful consideration of whether criminal prosecution was a proportionate response. Third, the federation’s judicial system operates with limited resources, so criminal trials should be reserved exclusively for cases where prosecution is necessary, proportionate, and clearly in the public interest. Fourth, the national government is moving forward with the Diversionary Caution Bill 2026, which will create formal, appropriate alternatives to prosecution for eligible minor offenses. Fifth, a criminal conviction carries lifelong consequences for individuals, including barriers to employment and other life opportunities, and such harm should only be imposed when explicitly justified by public interest.

    The DPP added that the case underscores the urgent need for the proposed Diversionary Caution Bill, which has been in development for two years. Once enacted into law, the legislation will establish a structured formal cautioning framework that offers an alternative path to prosecution for qualifying low-level offenses. The new system will be administered by the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs through a dedicated lead officer and an independent oversight committee, designed to guarantee fairness, consistent application of the framework, and public accountability for all decisions.

    In additional details released alongside the discontinuation order, the DPP confirmed that its office has held extensive consultations with legal counsel representing the Kollision Band members. As part of the resolution, the band has committed to creating original anti-gang music and participating in national public awareness campaigns focused on reducing gang violence across the federation.

    The DPP praised the band’s constructive response to the case, noting that its willingness to contribute meaningfully to the country’s ongoing anti-gang and anti-violence initiatives aligns with the core goals of the proposed diversionary justice framework.

    In closing, the office reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to the fair, independent and impartial administration of justice across St. Kitts and Nevis, stating that all future prosecutorial decisions will continue to be guided exclusively by law, evidence, and the public interest.

  • American Airlines expands Miami-St. Kitts service with two daily winter flights – WIC News

    American Airlines expands Miami-St. Kitts service with two daily winter flights – WIC News

    One of the largest carriers in the United States, American Airlines, is ramping up its seasonal service between Miami International Airport and St. Kitts, adding two daily non-stop flights to meet growing travel demand during the Caribbean peak winter tourism season. The expanded schedule will run from December 17, 2026, through April 5, 2027, with all flights operating through St. Kitts’ Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport, according to an official announcement from tourism authorities of St. Kitts and Nevis.

    Marsha Henderson, Minister of Tourism for the twin-island federation, highlighted that the additional daily flights come at a critical time for the country’s tourism sector, coinciding with the busiest travel window of the year and the annual St. Kitts and Nevis National Carnival, popularly known as Sugar Mas. The festival, a major cultural draw for the destination, consistently draws a sharp uptick in international visitor arrivals each winter. Tourism leaders project that the boosted airlift will not only accommodate this seasonal surge but also drive sustained growth in visitor numbers throughout the entire operating period.

    For travelers, the expanded service brings far greater flexibility when planning winter getaways to the Caribbean, eliminating common scheduling constraints that often limit trip planning. Unlike the previous limited service between the two locations, two daily departures will allow visitors to align travel plans with personal schedules, connecting seamlessly to American Airlines’ extensive global network through its Miami hub.

    St. Kitts has emerged as a top destination for travelers seeking high-end Caribbean vacations, blending untouched natural landscapes, rich cultural history, and world-class luxury accommodation. Visitors to the island can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, relax on the powdery white sands of South Friars Bay and Cockleshell Beach, or take a short scenic ferry ride to the neighboring island of Nevis, creating a two-island vacation experience in a single trip. The destination’s luxury hospitality offerings include prominent properties such as the Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour, St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort, and Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort, catering to a range of traveler preferences from family getaways to romantic retreats.

    Industry analysts note that the expanded service represents a vote of confidence from American Airlines in the long-term growth of St. Kitts and Nevis’ tourism sector, which has rebounded strongly post-pandemic and continues to see rising demand from North American travelers. For the local economy, which relies heavily on tourism as a core source of employment and government revenue, increased visitor arrivals are expected to generate widespread benefits across hotels, restaurants, local tour operators, and retail businesses throughout the peak season.

  • 2026 Sonia Boddie Promising Youth Leader Scholarships Awarded

    2026 Sonia Boddie Promising Youth Leader Scholarships Awarded

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – July 7, 2026 – A decades-long commitment to nurturing young community leaders reached a meaningful milestone Tuesday, as two local graduating primary school students were named the 2026 recipients of the Sonia Boddie Promising Youth Leader Scholarship.

    At an intimate ceremony hosted at Edgar T. Morris Primary School in the coastal Tabernacle Village, benefactor Sonia Boddie-Thompson officially awarded certificates and monetary grants to the two new honorees, Tanella Welcome and Josiah Finch. The award is designed specifically to support students transitioning from primary to secondary education, covering early education costs including school uniforms, textbooks and other learning supplies.

    For Boddie-Thompson, this year’s award cycle carries extra personal significance. Tuesday’s ceremony fell 30 years to the period after she graduated as valedictorian from the same campus, which was known as Tabernacle Primary School at the time of her graduation. The institution, she says, was foundational in shaping her personal and professional growth, and launching her scholarship initiative 13 years ago was her way of giving back to the community that lifted her up.

    “This is the thirteenth year that I have been awarding this scholarship, and I am extremely happy to be able to continue providing this assistance to deserving students,” Boddie-Thompson shared during the event. “This year is particularly special because it marks 30 years since I graduated as valedictorian of this school… which has played a significant role in shaping the woman I have become. It is therefore my prayer that this scholarship will motivate the awardees to continue striving for excellence and inspire them to pay it forward one day.”

    Boddie-Thompson went on to reaffirm her unwavering commitment to supporting the school and its students, saying she intends to continue funding and awarding the annual scholarship for the rest of her life.

    Dale Phipps, principal of Edgar T. Morris Primary School, extended his gratitude to Boddie-Thompson for her consistent generosity and long-standing collaborative partnership with the school. Since the scholarship was first launched in 2014, it has now provided financial assistance to 36 local students making the critical transition to secondary education, removing financial barriers that could otherwise hinder their academic progress.

    This report is based on a press release submitted to SKNVibes.com; the outlet has not edited original content for spelling or grammar, and the views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of SKNVibes.com or its partners.

  • Cricket West Indies Announces ODI Squad for the First Three Matches against New Zealand

    Cricket West Indies Announces ODI Squad for the First Three Matches against New Zealand

    ST JOHN’S, Antigua – In a key step ahead of its 2027 ICC 50-over World Cup build-up, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled a 15-player squad for the first three matches of its upcoming five-match One-Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand, with matches set to be hosted across Guyana and Barbados.

    Leading the new call-ups is 19-year-old wrist spinner Vitel Lawes, who earns his first ever selection to the senior men’s international squad. The young prodigy has already impressed selectors after spending weeks training with the senior side during the pre-series preparatory camp, and capped an outstanding start to 2026 with a spot on the ICC Under-19 World Cup Team of the Tournament. During that youth competition, Lawes delivered a standout performance, claiming 10 wickets and bowling more dot balls than any other competitor, cementing his reputation as one of Caribbean cricket’s most promising young prospects.

    To support Lawes through his first senior international assignment, veteran spinner and current team coach Nikita Miller has been added to the team management group for the Guyana leg of the series, where he will provide ongoing specialized coaching to the teenager.

    The squad announcement also brings a series of adjustments to the planned selection following off-field commitments and personal tragedy. Shimron Hetmyer has received pre-approved clearance via a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to take part in this season’s Major League Cricket competition in the United States, ruling him out of the opening leg of the New Zealand series. All-rounder Shamar Springer withdrew his name from selection entirely following the recent passing of his mother, with CWI issuing a formal statement of condolence to Springer and his entire family as they navigate this difficult period. Keemo Paul, who was only recently called up as reinforcement to the West Indies Test squad facing Sri Lanka, has been named as Springer’s replacement in the ODI squad.

    Outside of these adjustments, the squad retains the core group of players that competed in West Indies’ recent ODI series against Sri Lanka, hosted in Jamaica earlier this season. For head coach Daren Sammy, the New Zealand series is a critical milestone in the team’s long-term preparations for the 2027 50-over World Cup, and every fixture between now and the tournament carries high stakes.

    “Every series we play from here on leading up to the 50 Over World Cup, we view them as must-win scenarios,” Sammy explained in a statement following the squad announcement. “The matches against New Zealand provide the best opportunity for us to continue our improvement as an ODI unit while winning more matches for the people of the Caribbean.”

    Sammy added that Lawes’ inclusion is part of a deliberate, long-term strategy to build depth ahead of the World Cup, by giving emerging talent opportunities at the senior level in conditions that match their individual skill sets. “The inclusion of Vitel Lawes is strategic as we continue our long-term vision of exposing players who can complement the team in conditions that best suit their skill sets,” he said.

    The full squad is set to assemble in Guyana on July 8, immediately following the conclusion of the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka in Antigua. The three opening ODIs will all take place at Guyana National Stadium in Providence, with the first fixture scheduled for July 11 at 2:30pm AST (1:30pm Jamaica time), the second on July 13 at the same time, and the third on July 16.

    The full 15-member squad for the Guyana leg of the series is: Shai Hope (captain), Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Vitel Lawes, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Sherfane Rutherford, and Jayden Seales.