West Indies announce ODI squad for England series; Shimron Hetmyer returns

West Indies have called back hard-hitting middle-order batter Shimron Hetmyer to their ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against England, starting October 31 in Antigua. The southpaw replaces opener Alick Athanaze and is the only change to the squad that recently locked horns against Sri Lanka.

Hetmyer, who was a key player in West Indies' 2-1 victory over England in their last ODI series in December 2023, returns after missing the Sri Lanka tour due to personal reasons. In the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024, Hetmyer finished as the fifth-highest run-scorer and is riding high on confidence.

Meanwhile, the hosts are coming off a 2-1 series loss to Sri Lanka and will look to play better cricket in their home soil. The team will be led by Shai Hope, who continues his role as captain, while 17-year-old Jewel Andrew, retains his place after making his debut in the Sri Lanka series.

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy is excited about the upcoming challenge and opened up about the historic rivalry between the two nations. 

"Playing against England always provides a new challenge and reignites a rivalry that the players and the people of the Caribbean are eager for. Somehow, we West Indies always find a way to raise our game when we face England," Daren Sammy said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

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The series will begin with two ODIs at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on October 31 and November 2, before concluding at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on November 6. 

England, who have already arrived in the Caribbean, will be led by Liam Livingstone in the absence of Jos Buttler, who continues his rehabilitation from a calf injury. Looking ahead to the future, Sammy mentioned the series' importance in West Indies' long-term plans.

"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. 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," Sammy added.

The squad maintains a mix of experience and youth, featuring experienced players like Alzarri Joseph and Brandon King alongside young talents such as Matthew Forde and Shamar Joseph. Opener Evin Lewis also retains his place after scoring a brilliant unbeaten 102 off 61 balls in his ODI comeback against Sri Lanka.