Hetmyer returns to West Indies ODI squad for England series

Shimron Hetmyer has returned to the West Indies’ One-Day International (ODI) squad for their upcoming three-match series against England, beginning Thursday in Antigua.

The 27-year-old left-hander replaces Alick Athanaze as the only change in the squad, following the team’s recent tour of Sri Lanka.

Hetmyer, who last appeared in ODIs for the West Indies in December 2023 when they defeated England 2-1, missed the Sri Lanka tour due to personal commitments. He recently concluded a successful Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season, finishing fifth among run-scorers.

Shai Hope will continue to lead the side, joined by promising 17-year-old batsman Jewel Andrew, who debuted in the final ODI against Sri Lanka.

England’s ODI squad will be captained by Liam Livingstone, with regular captain Jos Buttler sidelined due to a calf injury sustained in July. This tour marks England's third limited overs visit to the Caribbean since 2022.

"Facing England always presents a unique challenge and reignites a rivalry that excites players and fans alike,” West Indies head coach Daren Sammy said. “Somehow, we in the West Indies find a way to elevate our game when England is the opposition."

Sammy highlighted the historic rivalry and the significance of the home series as the team looks to build towards qualifying for the 2027 ICC Men's World Cup.

"This rivalry goes back for decades, and after defeating them last year at home for the first time in a long time in an ODI series, we're ready to face the challenge of a strong England squad again,” said Sammy. “ It's always special to play at home, where the local support brings energy and passion to every match. With our sights set on qualifying for the ICC Men's World Cup in 2027, we've selected a balanced squad that will no doubt push and compete with one of the best teams in the world."

The Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua will host the first two ODIs, with the final match taking place in Barbados. Following the ODIs, England and the West Indies will face off in a five-match T20 series at Kensington Oval in Barbados and the Daren Sammy National Stadium in St Lucia.

West Indies ODI squad: Shai Hope (capt), Jewel Andrew, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Hayden Walsh Jr

West Indies vs England ODI Series Schedule1st ODI:  October 31 - Sir Vivian Richards Stadium @ 2pm local time2nd ODI: November 2-  Sir Vivian Richards Stadium @ 9:30am local time3rd ODI:  November 6 - Kensington Oval Barbados @ 2pm local time