Shimron Hetmyer misses cut in WI squad for Ireland, England ODIs due to IPL 2025

Shimron Hetmyer. Pic/AFP

Swashbuckling Shimron Hetmyer, who continues to ply his trade in the ongoing IPL 2025 for Rajasthan Royals (RR), was a notable absentee in West Indies' 15-member squad for the upcoming tour of Ireland and England.

With Shai Hope stepping up as the ODI skipper, the side's top-order consists of the likes of Brandon King, Evin Lewis and Keacy Carty. Young star Jewel Andrew has also made the cut following the stunning performance in last year's Under-19 World Cup.

Later in the month, the team will travel to Europe to engage in three ODIs against Ireland, starting from May 21 to 25. The Caribbean side will later lock horns with England from May 29 to June 3.

Also Read: IPL 2025: MI's top guns to face GT's three pirates at Wankhede Stadium

The WI squad has the nucleus of players who were successful during home series wins against England and Bangladesh at the end of 2024.

Interestingly, this will be the first limited-overs tour, which will also provide them an opportunity to focus on their team building for the ODI World Cup 2027.

"These matches form a critical component towards the 2027 World Cup and there are signs of the team building consistency following the series sweep against Bangladesh and the win over England late last year," head coach Daren Sammy said.

"We expect the conditions to be challenging but we are creating a culture and mindset which emphasise playing the brand of cricket that is taking us closer to some of our overall objectives," he added.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) also announced changes to the coaching staff for the tour. Former fast bowler and 2012 World Cup champion Ravi Rampaul replaced James Franklin as the team's bowling coach. The side will also utilise the services of former Irish all-rounder Kevin O'Brien as part of the coaching staff during the Ireland leg of the tour.

West Indies ODI squad: Shai Hope (c), Jewel Andrew, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd.

(With IANS inputs)