Four Guyanese cricketers, including breakout fast-bowling star Shamar Joseph, have been named in the West Indies’ 15-man squad for the upcoming One Day International (ODI) tour of Europe, which begins on May 21 with a three-match series against Ireland.
Each bring a distinct skill set as the team prepares to face strong European teams Ireland and England. Joseph, who made global headlines earlier this year with a match-winning spell against Australia on Test debut in Brisbane, will lead the pace attack.
The 24-year-old from Baracara, Berbice, has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in world cricket. Now turning his attention to the white-ball format, Joseph will be looking to make his mark in ODIs.
Joining him are players Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, and Romario Shepherd, all of whom have been consistent performers at domestic and regional level.
The tour begins on May 21 with a three-match series against Ireland, followed by another three ODIs against England from May 29 to June 3.
All six matches form part of the ICC Future Tours Programme and serve as key preparation ahead of the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Motie, a dependable left-arm spinner from Berbice, has earned a reputation for his control and consistency. He is expected to be a key spin option during the European summer, where conditions may assist slower bowlers.
Rutherford offers middle-order versatility, combining powerful hitting with the ability to contribute with the ball. The all-rounder is seen as a potential match-winner in close finishes, especially against a well-balanced England side.
Shepherd, hailing from Georgetown, adds depth with his explosive lower-order batting and ability to bowl under pressure. His knack for changing games in tight situations makes him a vital part of the squad’s plans.
The West Indies squad will be led by Shai Hope and also features a mix of experienced names and promising talent, including Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Keacy Carty, Evin Lewis, Matthew Forde, and Justin Greaves.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed the squad on May 5, noting that many of the selected players were integral to the team’s home series victories over England and Bangladesh late last year.
“The squad has the nucleus of players who were successful during home series wins against England and Bangladesh to end 2024,” said a CWI statement. “The highly anticipated tour will be the first one of this year for the limited-overs team and provides an opportunity to focus on building towards the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.”
Head coach Daren Sammy emphasised the significance of the tour in shaping the team’s future.
“We expect the conditions to be challenging, but we are building a culture that embraces adaptability and a winning mindset,” said Sammy. He described the trip as a “critical component” in the side’s long-term development.
The matches in Ireland and England are expected to challenge the West Indies across a variety of conditions, offering valuable insights into team combinations, individual form, and strategic depth.
With four Guyanese players included, the tour also highlights Guyana’s increasing influence within West Indies cricket – a reflection of the strength of its domestic development system and the growing pipeline of international-ready talent.
