West Indies have been handed a big blow ahead of the commencement of the Test series in India later this week after pacer Alzarri Joseph was ruled out of the tour. Joseph had scans after complaining of discomfort and the results revealed 'a degeneration of the previously resolved lower back injury,' according to a statement from Cricket West Indies on social media.

Jediah Blades, who is uncapped at the Test level, has been drafted in as cover for the two Tests.

CWI also confirmed that they had initially approached Jason Holder to come in as Joseph's replacement. However, the allrounder declined selection citing a planned medical procedure.

The first Test of the series kicks off on October 2 in Ahmedabad and the second and final Test will begin on October 10 in Delhi

Johann Layne has replaced fast bowler Shamar Joseph for the upcoming two-match Test series against India, Cricket West Indies announced in a social media post. Joseph has been ruled out of the series after suffering an undisclosed injury.