Shamar Joseph, Evin Lewis return to West Indies squad ahead of T20 World Cup

By SABC Sport
13th January 2026

Shamar Joseph and Evin Lewis has returned to the West Indies squad for the T20 series against Afghanistan, while Brandon King will lead the Caribbean side in the absence of Shai Hope.

Fast bowler Joseph has been out of action for the last three months due to a shoulder injury, missing the tours to India and Bangladesh.

Opening batter Lewis, also back from injury according to a CWI release, last played for West Indies in August last year in the ODI series against Pakistan.

Windies skipper Hope will miss the three matches against Afghanistan, from 19-22 January, due to playing commitments in the SA20, alongside Roston Chase, Akeal Hosein and Sherfane Rutherford.

"The opportunity to play competitive matches in subcontinental conditions is ideal, as it assists with our preparations and confidence building ahead of what will be a competitive T20 World Cup," head coach Darren Sammy said.

"It also presents a valuable platform to assess players who missed significant time towards the end of 2025, as well as those stepping into important roles for this series."

The West Indies squad for the T20 World Cup will be announced ahead of a three-match series in South Africa from 27 to 31 January.

West Indies T20 squad: Brandon King (captain), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Shimron Hetmyer, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Khary Pierre, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Ramon Simmonds, Shamar Springer