The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has unveiled its T20I squad for the upcoming CG United Series against Bangladesh, scheduled to be played in St. Vincent and the Grenadines from July 2 to 7. The series will mark the first international cricket in St. Vincent since 2014 and will serve as vital preparation for both teams ahead of the 2023 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
The West Indies squad features a blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young prospects. The squad includes the return of batting maestro Chris Gayle, who has been in impressive form for the Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Other notable selections include skipper Kieron Pollard, vice-captain Nicholas Pooran, and explosive opening batsman Andre Fletcher.
The bowling attack is led by seasoned pacers Dwayne Bravo and Jason Holder, while emerging spinners Akeal Hosein and Yannic Cariah will be seeking to make their mark. Oshane Thomas, who has been in scintillating form for the Barbados Royals in the CPL, has also earned a call-up.
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Kieron Pollard (c) | All-rounder |
| Nicholas Pooran (vc) | Wicket-keeper batsman |
| Chris Gayle | Batsman |
| Andre Fletcher | Batsman |
| Shimron Hetmyer | Batsman |
| Lendl Simmons | Batsman |
| Dwayne Bravo | All-rounder |
| Jason Holder | All-rounder |
| Akeal Hosein | Bowler |
| Yannic Cariah | Bowler |
| Oshane Thomas | Bowler |
The CG United Series will provide a stage for several key players to showcase their abilities. Here are a few players to keep an eye on:
Chris Gayle: The legendary opener has amassed an astonishing 2,500 runs in T20Is, including a record-breaking 16 sixes in an innings. His explosive batting could pose a significant threat to Bangladesh.
Nicholas Pooran: The exciting wicket-keeper batsman has been in prolific form for the West Indies in recent matches. His aggressive batting style and impressive leadership skills will be crucial for the team.
Mustafizur Rahman: The Bangladeshi pace spearhead is renowned for his deceptive cutters and variations. He will be tasked with containing the dangerous West Indies batting lineup.
The CG United Series will be played at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The schedule for the series is as follows:
| Date | Match |
|---|---|
| July 2 | 1st T20I |
| July 3 | 2nd T20I |
| July 5 | 3rd T20I |
The CG United Series will be a crucial test for both West Indies and Bangladesh as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The West Indies will be keen to build on their recent successes in T20 cricket, while Bangladesh will be determined to prove their mettle against a top-ranked opponent.
The series is also expected to attract significant support from local fans in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The return of international cricket to the island is a major boost for the local economy and a testament to the growing popularity of T20 cricket in the region.
The CG United Series between West Indies and Bangladesh in St. Vincent and the Grenadines promises to be an exciting and competitive affair. With a strong squad and a passionate home crowd behind them, the West Indies will be confident of securing a series victory. However, Bangladesh will pose a formidable challenge, and the series is likely to provide valuable lessons for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup.
The series is not only about cricket but also about the resurgence of international cricket in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the local cricket community and a sign of the growing interest in T20 cricket worldwide.
