Big changes in West Indies squad ahead of New Zealand ODIs

The West Indies have shaken things up for their three-match ODI trip to New Zealand starting November 16. The squad announcement just came, and a few names surprised fans. 

The biggest talking point was the absence of Brandon King. His recent run of low scores created pressure, yet many still thought he might squeeze in. When the news broke, you could almost hear the chatter online as supporters tried to make sense of it.

John Campbell’s return softened some of that noise. The left-hander has been in sharp touch after a strong Test stint in India and a confident stretch in the domestic fifty-over games. He looked hungry in those matches. The selectors clearly liked what they saw. It adds a bit of spark to the top order, and the team needed that fresh burst.

Shai Hope leads the squad once again, and he walks into this series knowing his group needs a lift. The visitors arrive after a 3–1 T20I series defeat, a result that left plenty of players shaking their heads. They won a match and then watched the remaining matches slip. 

West Indies Squad for ODI Series 

Shai Hope (c), Alick Athanaze, Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Johann Layne, Khary Pierre, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, and Shamar Springer.

Now the bowling unit has an even fresher feel. Matthew Forde returns after his T20 outings during his injury comeback. He looked confident, even when the conditions challenged him. He joins the one-day setup with a chance to cement a long-term role. Right beside him stands Johann Layne, the uncapped all-rounder who has been talked about quietly for months. Some inside the regional circuit insist he has the raw spark the team has been missing. That alone makes his selection worth watching closely. That one call could flip the dynamic of the pace attack.

Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer add further depth to the seam group. Khary Pierre offers spin support, giving Hope decent balance across the field.

The West Indies will open their campaign in Christchurch on November 16. They moved to Napier on November 19 before ending the tour in Hamilton on November 22. Three stops. Three chances to reset their story.

And with this many changes, the atmosphere around the squad feels different. Maybe this is the moment that shifts their momentum. Maybe it is just the start of another trial. Either way, curiosity follows them into New Zealand.

WI vs NZ ODI series schedule

• November 16 - 1st ODI, Christchurch
• November 19 - 2nd ODI, Napier
• November 22 - 3rd ODI, Hamilton