T20 World Cup 2026: West Indies Announce Squad, Shai Hope Returns as Captain

The road to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 has officially begun for the two-time champions, West Indies, while the Caribbean side has announced a formidable 15-member squad for the mega event starting February 7. In a major development, 32-year-old Shai Hope has been named the captain of the side, marking a sensational return to the T20 format after being sidelined in recent series.

Shai Hope Leads the Caribbean Charge

The appointment of Shai Hope as captain has come as a surprise to many, especially since he wasn't part of the squad during the recent T20I series against Afghanistan. However, the selection committee has shown immense faith in his leadership qualities and tactical acumen. Along with Hope, the squad sees the return of several veterans including Jason Holder, Roston Chase, and Sherfane Rutherford, adding much-needed depth and experience to the lineup. The team aims to reclaim its lost glory in the shortest format of the game under Hope's guidance.

Key Inclusions and Notable Absentees

The squad features a mix of explosive power-hitters and versatile all-rounders. A fresh face, Quinton Sampson, has earned his maiden call-up for the World Cup, bringing an element of mystery to the bowling attack. However, the team will miss the services of premier pacer Alzarri Joseph, who has been ruled out due to injury. Also, the absence of Evin Lewis from the 15-member list has raised a few eyebrows. The pace attack will now be led by Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales, supported by the all-round capabilities of Romario Shepherd and Matthew Forde.

Group Details and Opening Match

West Indies is placed in Group C for the T20 World Cup 2026, alongside heavyweights England, and emerging teams like Nepal, Italy, and Scotland. The Windies will kick off their campaign on February 7 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata against Scotland. Before the World Cup, the team is scheduled to play a three-match T20I series against South Africa starting. January 27, which will serve as a crucial preparation ground for the tournament in India and Sri Lanka.

Full 15-Member Squad

Shai Hope (Captain), Johnson Charles, Brandon King, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Quinton Sampson, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, and Jayden Seales.

Two-time champions West Indies have named their 15-member unit for the #T20WorldCup 2026 👀https://t.co/0N2Bn7lnok

— T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) January 26, 2026