**ST JOHN’S, Antigua –** Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced its 16-member squad for the highly anticipated three-match home Test series against Australia, which begins on Wednesday, June 25th, at Kensington Oval in Barbados, for the coveted Sir Frank Worrell Trophy.
This series marks the critical start of the 2025-2027 ICC Test Championship Cycle, and several changes have been made to the squad that last featured in the drawn series against Pakistan earlier this year.
CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, expressed that selections were made in line with the team’s commitment to building a bold, execution-driven identity in Test cricket, with consistency in batting output and a dynamic bowling attack being key to the overall assessment.
“The start of the Test Championship Cycle is critical for building positive momentum as we strive to improve our rankings. Beginning with a strong showing against a team like Australia would be ideal in our quest to restore the West Indies to the top of Test cricket,” said Bascombe. “It was imperative that we assemble a squad that is well-equipped in both batting and bowling to manage the ebbs and flows of this format, while also having the ability to apply pressure in key phases through disciplined, purposeful play.”
“We have analysed what the top teams in the world are doing and what is needed for us to bridge the gap. We have identified a strategy, along with a group of players and resources, to give us the best advantage as we seek to elevate the team and challenge the best in the world,” he added.
Head Coach Daren Sammy expressed excitement about the inclusion of young prospect Kevlon Anderson, who earned his spot following solid performances in domestic competitions and is expected to provide stability at the top of the order. He also welcomed the return of Shai Hope, noting his consistency in white-ball cricket. “Brandon King’s inclusion fits a role we have identified that needs special focus to elevate our team closer to the top of the rankings,” said Sammy.
The fast-bowling attack will be led by Jayden Seales, Alzarri Joseph, and Shamar Joseph. Additionally, Johann Layne, a 21-year-old product of the West Indies Academy with 63 first-class wickets in 17 matches, and Anderson Phillip, who recently claimed a 5-wicket haul for West Indies A against South Africa A, have been called up for reinforcement. The spin-bowling responsibilities will be taken care of by Captain Roston Chase and Vice-Captain Jomel Warrican.
Despite being considered, veteran pacer Kemar Roach has not been included and has been properly informed.
Sammy requested patience from the fans towards the players and assured them of an exciting style of play throughout the series. “I am truly looking forward to this series because we want to start strongly and make our home ground a fortress during this cycle, with our passionate and proud fans behind us. The matches will be challenging, but I believe in this core group of players, and they are eager to wear the maroon and make our fans proud.”
**West Indies Test Squad for Series Against Australia:**
– Roston Chase (Captain)
– Jomel Warrican (Vice-Captain)
– Kevlon Anderson
– Kraigg Brathwaite
– John Campbell
– Keacy Carty
– Justin Greaves
– Shai Hope
– Tevin Imlach
– Alzarri Joseph
– Shamar Joseph
– Brandon King
– Johann Layne
– Mikyle Louis
– Anderson Phillip
– Jayden Seales
**Team Management:**
– Head Coach: Daren Sammy
– Assistant Coach (Batting): Floyd Reifer
– Assistant Coach (Bowling): Ravi Rampaul
– Assistant Coach (Fielding): Rayon Griffith
– Team Manager: Rawl Lewis
– Physiotherapist: Dr. Denis Byam
– Strength & Conditioning Coach: Ronald Rogers
– Massage Therapist: Darc Browne
– Team Analyst: Avenesh Seetaram
– Content & Media Officer: Jerome Foster
**Full Match Schedule:**
– 1st Test: 25-29 June 2025 @ Kensington Oval, Barbados
– 2nd Test: 3-7 July 2025 @ National Stadium, Grenada
– 3rd Test: 12-16 July 2025 @ Sabina Park, Jamaica (Day/Night)