WI vs BAN 2024- Mindley, Blades replace Joseph, Forde in West Indies ODI squad (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images for ECB)
The island nation West Indies men’s ODI squad has made a few changes ahead of their three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, starting on Sunday, December 8. Fast bowlers Marquino Mindley and Jediah Blades have been called up to replace Matthew Forde and Shamar Joseph, who have been ruled out due to injuries.
Forde and Joseph were the key members of the West Indies bowling attack, but injury concerns have sidelined them for the upcoming ODI series. Forde is continuing his rehabilitation after sustaining a thigh injury, while Joseph is struggling with shin splints following the completion of the recent Test series. The medical team has mentioned that Forde needs more time for recovery, while Joseph will be monitored closely before future assignments.
“The medical team on further assessment, determined that Forde must continue rehabilitation from a sustained injury (thigh injury). Additionally, Joseph is suffering from shin splints following the completion of the recent Test series and will be monitored by the medical staff ahead of future assignments,” Windies Cricket said in a statement.
All matches of the ODI series are to be played at Warner Park in St Kitts
With these two fast bowlers unavailable, West Indies selectors have turned to the young talents of Mindley and Blades. Both players have impressed in recent domestic cricket tournaments. Mindley’s call-up is a result of his stellar performance in the 2024 CG United Super 50 tournament. The right-arm fast bowler picked the most wickets among fast bowlers in the tournament.
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On the other hand, Blades, who is part of the West Indies Academy, has also earned his first call-up after a remarkable run in the same tournament. Blades claimed 14 wickets in the Super 50 Cup. With Mindley and Blades joining the West Indies squad, the team will now focus on their preparations for the ODI series against Bangladesh. The series will consist of three matches, with the first match scheduled for December 8, followed by games on December 10 and December 12, and is set to be played at Warner Park, in St Kitts. The West Indies will be looking to bounce back after leveling the two-match Test series against the same opposition.
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