West Indies have been dealt a significant blow forward of their upcoming Check sequence in India, with frontline quick bowler Shamar Joseph dominated out because of damage.
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Cricket West Indies confirmed the event on social media, noting that the 24-year-old fast can be reassessed earlier than the white-ball tour of Bangladesh. No specifics concerning the damage have been disclosed.
Joseph’s absence is important: in simply 11 Exams, he has captured 51 wickets at a glowing common of 21.66, and famously introduced himself with a five-wicket haul on debut in opposition to Australia in January 2024. His capability to ship match-turning spells had made him central to the Caribbean assault.
Busy calendar for the boys in maroon
The 2-Check sequence in opposition to India concludes on October 14, after which the West Indies instantly shift focus to Bangladesh for 3 ODIs (October 18–24) and three T20Is (October 27–November 1). The hectic schedule continues with an all-format tour of New Zealand that includes 5 T20Is, three ODIs, and three Exams. At present, the squad is within the UAE getting ready for a three-match T20I sequence in opposition to Nepal beginning September 27.
A recent face: Layne steps In
Changing Joseph is Johann Layne, a 22-year-old pace-bowling allrounder incomes his maiden Check call-up. Layne has already carved a repute in regional cricket: throughout 19 first-class matches he has taken 66 wickets at 22.28 whereas contributing 495 runs with the bat. His red-ball résumé consists of 4 five-wicket hauls and three four-fors.
Earlier this yr, Layne featured for West Indies A in opposition to South Africa A, chipping in with helpful runs and regular spells. His standout performances, nevertheless, got here within the home four-day competitors, the place he dominated for the West Indies Academy—snaring 27 wickets in six matches at 15.88, together with an excellent six-wicket haul in opposition to the Windward Islands.
The brand new-look assault
Layne now joins a fast-bowling group spearheaded by Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales, and Anderson Phillip, with Justin Greaves offering additional seam-bowling depth. Spin duties can be shouldered by Jomel Warrican, Khary Pierre, and captain Roston Chase.
His choice provides each promise and intrigue—an untested however hungry cricketer stepping onto one of many sport’s greatest phases, whereas West Indies handle with out their established strike bowler.
