AUS vs WI: West Indies forced to include 7 uncapped players in Test series squad as major names opt out

West Indies has been forced to name an inexperienced squad for the Test series against Australia down under as major names like Jason Holder and Kyle Mayers opted out.

Seven newcomers has been added to the side, which will be led by Kraigg Braithwaite. Alzarri Joseph will serve as the deputy for Braithwaite during the two-match series, which will begin on January 17 in Adelaide.

The seven uncapped players in the 15-member squad are Zachary McCaskie, wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach, allrounders Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge and Kevin Sinclair, as well as fast bowlers Akeem Jordan and Shamar Joseph.

Holder and Mayers, who had recently opted out of the central contracts offered to them by West Indies cricket, are expected to take part in the ILT20 and SA20 while the Test series will be going on in Australia.

Lead selector Desmond Haynes admitted that the squad has been affected by the absence of some key players but felt that the selected ones have the talent to perform down under.

“The squad has been affected by the unavailability of some key players. However, we have had a very strong red-ball program being run over the past year, which has unearthed significant talent throughout the region,” said Haynes.

“The selected players have passed each test given to them and must now be given the opportunity to showcase their skills in the Test arena.

“Australia away is always a challenge, but we are confident in our team.”

West Indies Test squad: Kraigg Brathwaite (c), Alzarri Joseph (vc), Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Kirk McKenzie. Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Justin Greaves, Joshua DaSilva, Akeem Jordan, Gudakesh Motie, Kemar Roach, Kevin Sinclair, Tevin Imlach, Shamar Joseph, Zachary McCaskie.