West Indies will kick off their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 preparations with a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, scheduled to be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium from January 19. Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed a 16-member squad, marking the first competitive step in the team’s build-up to the global tournament, which begins on February 7.
With regular T20I captain Shai Hope unavailable due to SA20 commitments, Brandon King has been appointed stand-in skipper. King brings prior leadership experience, having previously captained the West Indies in T20 internationals, including the home series against South Africa in early 2024. His appointment ensures continuity as the side transitions into a crucial phase of preparation.
The squad selection also signals a blend of opportunity and rotation. Quentin Sampson, the Breakout Player of the 2025 Caribbean Premier League (CPL), has earned his maiden international call-up following a standout domestic season. He replaces Rovman Powell, who has been rested alongside Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd as part of a workload management strategy designed to keep senior players fresh ahead of the World Cup.
There is further encouragement for West Indies with the return of Evin Lewis and Shamar Joseph, both of whom have been cleared after completing return-to-play protocols following injuries. However, fast bowler Alzarri Joseph remains sidelined as he continues his recovery, with selectors monitoring his progress closely in relation to World Cup selection.
Head coach Daren Sammy underlined the importance of the Afghanistan series, particularly with matches being played in subcontinental conditions similar to those expected at the T20 World Cup.
“This series presents a valuable platform to fine-tune our preparations, test combinations, and build confidence ahead of a highly competitive T20 World Cup,” Sammy said.
West Indies are expected to finalise their 15-player T20 World Cup squad ahead of their subsequent T20I series against South Africa from January 27 to 31, making the Afghanistan tour a pivotal evaluation phase as the Windies aim to re-establish themselves among the elite in the shortest format.
West Indies T20I Squad vs Afghanistan: Brandon King (C), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Khary Pierre, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Ramon Simmonds, Shamar Springer, Shimron Hetmyer.
West Indies’ T20I fixtures against Afghanistan:
- First T20I: January 19, Dubai, 8:00 PM
- Second T20I: January 21, Dubai, 8:00 PM
- Third T20I: January 22, Dubai, 8:00 PM
*All times are in Gulf Standard Time (GST)
