WI vs NZ Test Series 2025-26: West Indies Announces Squad, Picks Veteran Pacer Roach & Uncapped Ojay Shields
West Indies has brought back veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach to lead its bowling attack for the three-Test tour of New Zealand next month. The team announced a 15-player squad on Thursday.
Key bowlers Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph are out due to injuries. The squad mixes experienced players with new talent, including a first-time call-up for 29-year-old fast bowler Ojay Shields, who will play his first international match on New Zealand’s tough pitches.
Roach has not played a Test since January, but the 37-year-old has plenty of experience, having played 85 Tests and taken 284 wickets. He was chosen because the pitches in New Zealand are expected to favor fast bowlers.
“New Zealand is usually very hard for visiting teams to play in, so we have focused on careful preparation,” said CWI’s director of cricket, Miles Bascombe. Middle-order batter Kavem Hodge is back in the Test squad, but Khary Pierre is not included because spin bowling is not expected to be very important in the series.
West Indies vs New Zealand 2025-26: Full Test Tour Schedule
| Match Type | Dates | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Two-Day Warm-Up Match | 25–26 Nov 2025 | Lincoln, Christchurch |
| 1st Test | 1–5 Dec 2025 | Hagley Oval, Christchurch |
| 2nd Test | 9–13 Dec 2025 | Basin Reserve, Wellington |
| 3rd Test | 17–21 Dec 2025 | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui |
West Indies vs New Zealand 2025-26: Full Squad
West Indies Squad: Roston Chase (C), Jomel Warrican (VC), Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Ojay Shields
I am a dedicated sports content writer who loves cricket and enjoys creating friendly and engaging content. I write about big moments, player performances, and match stories in simple and clear words, helping fans stay informed and connected to cricket around the world.
Follow Us
Cricket Poll
Latest Comments
johnylevis