World Cup 2026: West Indies have officially kicked off their preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with the announcement of a 16-member squad for a three-match T20 International series against Afghanistan.
The short but crucial tour will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium from January 19, offering the Caribbean side valuable match practice in subcontinental conditions.
With the global showpiece set to begin on February 7, this series represents a key checkpoint in West Indies’ roadmap toward assembling their strongest World Cup combination.
Brandon King to Lead in Shai Hope’s Absence
Regular T20I captain Shai Hope is unavailable for selection due to his commitments in the ongoing SA20 league, prompting Cricket West Indies (CWI) to appoint Brandon King as stand-in captain.
King is no stranger to leadership, having previously captained the side in T20 internationals, including the home series against South Africa in early 2024. His appointment ensures continuity and stability as the team experiments with combinations ahead of the World Cup.
Breakout Star Quentin Sampson Earns Maiden Call-Up
One of the biggest talking points from the squad announcement is the inclusion of Quentin Sampson, who impressed throughout the 2025 Caribbean Premier League. Named the tournament’s Breakout Player, Sampson has now earned his first international call-up, marking a major milestone in his career.
He replaces Rovman Powell, who has been rested along with Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd as part of West Indies’ workload management strategy during a packed international calendar.
Key Players Return as Injury Watch Continues
The squad also welcomes back Evin Lewis and fast bowler Shamar Joseph, both of whom have been cleared after completing their return-to-play protocols following injuries sustained in previous assignments.
However, star pacer Alzarri Joseph remains sidelined after picking up an injury toward the end of 2025. While he has not been selected for the Afghanistan series, CWI confirmed that his recovery will be closely monitored with a view toward the T20 World Cup squad.
Sammy Stresses Importance of Subcontinental Conditions
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy underlined the significance of the Afghanistan series, particularly with the matches being played in conditions similar to those expected during the World Cup.
“This series presents a valuable platform to fine-tune our preparations, assess returning players, and build confidence ahead of a highly competitive T20 World Cup,” Sammy said.
The coaching staff will use the series to evaluate team balance, bowling combinations, and middle-order consistency as they edge closer to finalising the World Cup squad.
World Cup Squad Decision Looms
CWI has confirmed that the final 15-player squad for the T20 World Cup will be named ahead of West Indies’ next T20I assignment against South Africa, scheduled from January 27 to January 31. Performances in Dubai could therefore play a decisive role in shaping the final selection.
West Indies T20I Squad vs Afghanistan
West Indies Squad: Brandon King (c), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Khary Pierre, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Ramon Simmonds, Shamar Springer, Shimron Hetmyer
Match Schedule: West Indies vs Afghanistan T20Is
- 1st T20I: January 19 – Dubai – 8:00 PM
- 2nd T20I: January 21 – Dubai – 8:00 PM
- 3rd T20I: January 22 – Dubai – 8:00 PM
All match timings are in Gulf Standard Time (GST).
A Crucial Step Toward the Global Stage
As West Indies begin their T20 World Cup build-up, the Afghanistan series provides a timely opportunity to regain momentum, test depth, and sharpen execution. With several key players returning and new faces eager to impress, all eyes will be on Dubai as the Windies take their first major step toward T20 World Cup 2026.
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