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Key Takeaways

1🏏 Shai Hope returns as captain after missing the recent Afghanistan T20I series to lead West Indies at the T20 World Cup 2026
2💥 The squad features explosive batting power with Hetmyer, Powell, King, and Rutherford capable of match-winning performances
3🎯 Multiple all-round options including Jason Holder, Roston Chase, and Romario Shepherd provide tactical flexibility
4🌀 Strong spin duo of Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie offers quality slow-bowling options
5⚡ Young pacers Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales add firepower to the fast-bowling attack
6🏆 Two-time champions West Indies are targeting their third T20 World Cup title with this balanced 15-member squad

"The two-time champions will be led by Shai Hope at the marquee tournament."

West Indies Announce Star-Studded 15-Member Squad for T20 World Cup 2026 with Shai Hope as Captain

The West Indies have officially unveiled their 15-member squad for the highly anticipated ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, signaling their intent to add a third title to their illustrious T20 World Cup legacy.

Shai Hope Returns to Lead the Caribbean Side

In a significant development, Shai Hope has been named captain of the West Indies squad after missing the recent T20I series against Afghanistan. His return brings experience and composure to a side brimming with explosive talent.

Hope's leadership will be crucial as the two-time champions look to recapture the glory they achieved in 2012 and 2016.

Explosive Batting Lineup

The West Indies have assembled a batting order capable of dismantling any opposition. The squad features some of the most destructive batters in world cricket:

Shimron Hetmyer – Known for his audacious stroke-play and ability to change games in a matter of overs
Brandon King – A reliable opener with the temperament for big occasions
Johnson Charles – Aggressive top-order batter with T20 pedigree
Rovman Powell – One of the most fearsome power-hitters in the format
Sherfane Rutherford – Capable of explosive finishes in the death overs

All-Round Depth and Bowling Resources

The Caribbean outfit boasts impressive all-round options that provide balance and flexibility:

Jason Holder – The experienced all-rounder brings invaluable leadership and death-bowling expertise
Roston Chase – Offers spin-bowling utility alongside his batting capabilities
Romario Shepherd – A genuine seam-bowling all-rounder who can contribute with bat and ball

Spin and Pace Arsenal

The bowling attack features a compelling mix of pace and spin:

Spin Options

Akeal Hosein – Left-arm orthodox spinner who has been outstanding in T20 cricket
Gudakesh Motie – Another quality left-arm spinner providing variety

Pace Battery

Shamar Joseph – Rising fast bowler with raw pace and bounce
Jayden Seales – Young quick with the ability to trouble batters with movement
Matthew Forde – Adds depth to the pace attack
Quentin Sampson – Provides additional seam-bowling options

https://www.instagram.com/p/DT5igZADHQI

Full West Indies Squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Player	Role
Shai Hope (c)	Wicketkeeper-Batter
Shimron Hetmyer	Batter
Johnson Charles	Batter
Roston Chase	All-rounder
Matthew Forde	Bowler
Jason Holder	All-rounder
Akeal Hosein	Spinner
Shamar Joseph	Fast Bowler
Brandon King	Batter
Gudakesh Motie	Spinner
Rovman Powell	Batter
Sherfane Rutherford	Batter
Quentin Sampson	Bowler
Jayden Seales	Fast Bowler
Romario Shepherd	All-rounder

Looking Ahead: Can West Indies Claim a Third Title?

With a perfect blend of experience and youth, explosive batting power, and versatile bowling options, the West Indies appear well-equipped to challenge for their third T20 World Cup crown.

The return of Shai Hope as captain adds stability to a squad that possesses match-winners across all departments. If their big-game players fire on the global stage, the Caribbean side will be a force to be reckoned with at the marquee tournament.

Cricket fans around the world will be watching closely as the two-time champions aim to remind everyone why West Indies cricket remains synonymous with T20 excellence.