WI vs ENG: Shimron Hetmyer excluded from last leg of T20I series due to dismal form

Shimron Hetmyer (Photo by Philip Brown/Popperfoto via Getty Images)

West Indies’ T20I squad sees changes as Shimron Hetmyer faces exclusion due to a dip in form while Alzarri Joseph gets a breather ahead of their upcoming tour to Australia. Hetmyer’s struggle in recent games, managing only 1 and 2 runs in the first two matches against England, led to his omission from the playing eleven in Grenada and now for the final two T20Is. Johnson Charles, at 34 years old, steps in to replace Hetmyer, having last played a T20I in August where he scored 44 runs.

Meanwhile, Alzarri Joseph, after his impactful performance in the second T20I against England grabbing three wickets for 39 runs, will find himself rested for the remaining matches against England. This strategic rest will aim to prepare the 27-year-old pacer for the impending tour to Australia comprising Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, set to kick off with a Test match on January 17.

Oshane Thomas will earn his spot in the squad, taking over Joseph’s position for the final two T20Is in Trinidad. The decision comes after Joseph’s crucial contributions in the recent matches against England, displaying his prowess by dismissing key players like Phil Salt, Will Jacks, and Sam Curran, aiding the Windies in securing a 10-run victory in the second T20I.

With an eye on the forthcoming Australian tour, the Windies management strategically rotates players, providing opportunities and necessary rest to balance form and fitness ahead of the challenging series Down Under. The exclusion of Hetmyer and the resting of Joseph indicated a thoughtful approach in the team’s planning as they gear up for their next cricketing challenge.

West Indies squad for last two T20Is vs England:

Rovman Powell (C), Shai Hope, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Oshane Thomas