West Indies recall Andre Russell after two-year hiatus for T20I series against England

After a two-year break, explosive all-rounder Andre Russell, 35, has been called up for the T20I series against England, putting him back in the mix. The cricketer is said to have had a problem with the board after his last appearance in the T20 World Cup 2021, which prevented him from being included in the team. Nevertheless, he has been called up to strengthen their offensive since the T20 World Cup 2024 is scheduled to start in less than six months.

In addition, Matthew Forde has created a place for himself on the 15-man roster after being named Player of the Match in the series’ final ODI against England. Sherfane Rutherford, who excelled at bat during the ODI series, has also been called up. However, Jason Holder and Nicholas Pooran, who have missed a substantial number of recent international matches, have been added to the team.

Notably, the players’ early return reveals some of the West Indies’ preparations for the forthcoming T20 World Cup. They aim to make a big impression in the home World Cup, which they will co-host with the USA after failing to qualify for the T20 World Cup 2022 and the ODI World Cup 2023.

“As they are ready to be one of the two host teams for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA in June 2024, this will be the West Indies’ final home T20I series in 2023. We believe that the team we have chosen will offer us the best chance to win that competition. Following the team announcement, CWI’s senior selector, Desmond Haynes, stated, “We will keep evaluating in the run-up to the competition.”

Shai Hope, the captain of the ODI team, has been chosen as the team’s vice captain. The selection panel will have the chance to make changes to the roster for the series’ last two matches.

The following players represent the West Indies:

Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Rovman Powell (c), Shai Hope (vc), Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Gudakesh Motie, and Jason Holder