West Indies announce squad for the tour of England and Ireland

West Indies have announced their 14-strong squad for the upcoming series against England and Ireland.



The side, captained by Stafanie Taylor, sees the return of Hayley Matthews. Regular opener for West Indies, Matthews was forced to miss out on her sides' series against Pakistan after sustaining an injury in the Women's Big Bash League, playing for the Hobart Hurricanes. Also returning to the side is all-rounder Stacy Ann King. Having played her last international in 2016, King has earned her international call-up. A veteran of 66 ODIs and 76 T20s, King has amassed a total of 1660 runs and has taken 36 wickets for her country.



Veterans Merissa Aguilleira and Anisa Mohammad find themselves missing out on the national squad. Former West Indian captain and wicket-keeper suffered a recent slump in form, which could be why she has not been selected. Mohammad, who is currently the leading wicket-taker in T20s with 115 wickets, and has claimed 146 scalps in ODIs, has also not been included. Mohammad has not played regularly for the West Indies since the T20 World Cup. Replacing her is Karishma Ramharack, who debuted against Pakistan. Behind the stumps, Kycia Knight has claimed greater responsibility, in place of Aguilleira.



The opening pair may pose a dilemma for the coaching staff. Knight and Deandra Dottin opened the innings in Matthews absence and were fairly consistent. Now, the question arises: what will be the opening pairing for the West Indies?



Squad: Stafanie Taylor (c), Hayley Matthews, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Karishma Ramharack, Chedean Nation, Chinelle Henry, Kycia Knight, Kyshona Knight, Shakera Selman, Shamilia Connell, Shemaine Campbell, Natasha McLean, Stacy Ann King