Cricket West Indies (CWI) today announced the 16-member squad for the upcoming five-match T20 International (T20I) Series against Australia, to be played from July 20–28 at Sabina Park in Jamaica and Warner Park in St. Kitts.

The squad features the core group of players who secured a recent series win against Ireland, along with exciting newcomers Jewel Andrew and Jediah Blades earning maiden T20 call-ups.

Andrew, a highly regarded batting prospect and back-up wicketkeeper, has impressed with his intent and range against spin bowling. At just 18, he is seen as one of the region’s brightest prospects and will be eager to make his mark on the international stage.

Left arm seamer Blades who made his international debut against Bangladesh in 2024, was one of the shining lights during the inaugural West Indies Breakout League where he took most of his wickets in the powerplay. 

Visionless team selection. Andrew should not be in T20's at this young age. What's the thinking here?

In reply to Curtis

Why not? IPL had a 16 year old make a century.

Sammy has been allowed to make too many bad decisions as coach of both white ball and red ball. It was a big mistake to sack Rovman Powell, as T20 captain and give it to Hope. On the other hand if 18 year old Andrew is so highly regarded why was he not in the test team and even in the ODI team instead of T20 squad? Yes I know a 16 year old Indian was in the IPL and even got a century but that’s in Franchise cricket and besides India has a lot of quality players, unlike us that can’t spend time to develop our young prospects. We are too quick to pick young players and pack them as soon as they fail, like we did with Alick Arthanaze in all three versions

Andrews should be there to practice and learn by observation.

In reply to dayne

To pick up bad habits?

In reply to buds

Well, hopefully not, but many players have become better being around T20 cricket by observing what the opposing team does.

SMH