West Indies Announce ODI Squad for Pakistan Series: Romario Shepherd Returns After Rest

The West Indies Cricket Board has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming One-Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan, which is set to commence on August 8 in Trinidad. Notably, Romario Shepherd, the promising all-rounder, has been included in the squad after being rested for some time. His return is expected to bolster the West Indies' bowling attack, which has been under scrutiny in recent matches. The West Indies have been struggling in the ODI format, with their last series win coming against Ireland in June 2021. Their form has been inconsistent, and they will be looking to turn things around in this series against a strong Pakistan side. The series against Pakistan is seen as crucial preparation for the 2027 World Cup, and the West Indies will be keen to perform well to boost their chances. Romario Shepherd, who made his ODI debut in 2019, has been in good form in the T20 format, where he has taken 21 wickets in 20 matches at an average of 20.28. His return to the ODI squad is a boost for the West Indies, who will be looking to him to provide the same level of performance in the longer format. Coach Daren Sammy has expressed his confidence in the squad, stating that the series against Pakistan will provide an excellent opportunity for the team to test themselves against a strong opposition. He has also emphasized the importance of the series in the build-up to the 2027 World Cup, which the West Indies will be hosting. The West Indies will be looking to avenge their recent loss to Pakistan in the T20 format, where they were defeated 3-0 in a series played in Karachi in April 2021. The ODI series will provide an opportunity for the West Indies to gain revenge and boost their confidence ahead of the World Cup. The West Indies have a strong record in ODI series against Pakistan, having won six out of the ten series played between the two sides. However, their recent form suggests that they will face a tough challenge in this series. The series is expected to be closely contested, with both sides looking to gain an advantage ahead of the World Cup.