Shimron Hetmyer returns to West Indies ODI squad for Sri Lanka series in 2026

Shimron Hetmyer rejoins the West Indies ODI team ahead of the Sri Lanka series with an eye on the 2027 World Cup.

Hetmyer's ODI return Hetmyer played his last ODI against England in June of the previous year and has since missed three series against Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. He will rejoin the team for the final match of the Sri Lanka series starting June 3 at Sabina Park in Jamaica. His comeback follows strong performances in the recent T20 World Cup where he scored 248 runs at an average of 41.33 and a strike rate of 186.46. However, his recent IPL stint with Rajasthan Royals was less productive, scoring 78 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 113.04. ## CWI's squad strategy Cricket West Indies announced that Shimron Hetmyer has been reinstated into the ODI squad as part of their preparation for the 50-over World Cup scheduled for October and November next year. The statement highlighted his standout performances during the recent ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Additionally, Alzarri Joseph is set to return to international cricket for the first time since Australia's tour last year, having recovered from a back injury. Shamar Joseph, also back in the ODI squad, along with Jayden Seales, will have their workloads closely monitored. ## Squad changes Gudakesh Motie returns to the ODI squad after missing the New Zealand tour last year. Players left out from the New Zealand group include Alick Athanaze, Johann Layne, Khary Pierre, and Romario Shepherd. The West Indies team has struggled in recent ODIs, losing five of their last six matches, with their only victory coming in a Super Over against Bangladesh. Domestically, they have won their last four home series since 2023. ## World Cup qualification race The West Indies are currently ranked 10th and are competing for an automatic spot in the 2027 ODI World Cup, with only the top eight teams alongside hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe securing qualification through rankings. The team faces Sri Lanka in a three-match ODI series starting June 3, followed by three T20Is and two Tests in Jamaica and Antigua respectively. ## Coach's focus Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the importance of setting standards and playing fearless yet intelligent cricket. He described Sri Lanka as a disciplined and skilled ODI unit, especially in conditions demanding patience and smart play. The series against Sri Lanka is seen as an opportunity to define the team's identity and maintain intensity in the field, clarity with the bat, and consistency with the ball. ## West Indies ODI squad | Shai Hope (capt) | Ackeem Auguste | John Campbell | Keacy Carty | Roston Chase | Matthew Forde | Justin Greaves | Shimron Hetmyer | Amir Jangoo | Alzarri Joseph | Shamar Joseph | Gudakesh Motie | Sherfane Rutherford | Jayden Seales | Shamar Springer |