Key takeaways from West Indies' squad for T20 World Cup 2026

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West Indies unveiled their squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Monday with the two-time champions opting for form over pedigree as they look to win a third title in India and Sri Lanka next month.

West Indies squad: Shai Hope (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd

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We take a look at the takeaways from the squad announcement:

Shai Hope returns to take the reigns

West Indies have placed their faith in Hope to take charge for the T20 World Cup. Hope, who took over the T20I captaincy from Rovman Powell last year, has made big strides in the format.

The 32-year-old has been tasked with leading a Windies side that features a mix of fresh faces as well as experienced campaigners. Hope returns to lead the team having missed out the recent T20I series against Afghanistan.

West Indies’ past successes in this tournament have all been about mercurial leadership that has helped foster a strong bond within the squad and Hope will be eyeing to do the same if this group of young guns are to replicate that.

All-rounders add balance

West Indies have packed the squad with all-rounders that allow them to bat deeper while also retaining variety in their bowling attack. The likes of Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde provide the two-time champions with a lot of flexibility and variety.

In addition, Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie, although primarily bowlers, can be more than handy with the bat if needed, giving West Indies immense batting depth.

The batting depth allows the power hitters in the squad such as Powell, Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford the license to go big from the get-go and play their natural game, as well as that of the team.

On the bowling front too, West Indies have plenty of options, especially for the death overs to make a real impact.

Quentin Sampson, who made everyone take notice in the Caribbean Premier League 2025, is also a player to watch out for.

Bowling attack with plenty of variety

Hope will have a good headache when it comes to picking his bowling lineup with the West Indies squad having options to pick for every game situation. Jason Holder and Matthew Forde are certain to bring the short-ball ploy into the fray. Romario Shepherd is an excellent outlet during the death overs while Jayden Seales possesses the ability to move the ball.

The spin department is also well-equipped with the two left-arm tweakers bringing different sets of skills.

Akeal Hosein is known for his guile during the powerplay. Gudakesh Motie on the other hand, brings the ability to take wickets especially in the middle overs. Roston Chase is the more experienced resource in the spin department.

The West Indies will kickstart their T20 World Cup campaign against Scotland on February 9 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

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