Pooran Opts Out as Holder, Russell Join WI Squad for England

Jason Holder and Andre Russell return for West Indies' T20I series against England, while Nicholas Pooran opts out, requesting rest following his recent participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL). 

Following the end of their ODI series at The Oval on Tuesday, the West Indies will play England in three Twenty20 Internationals. They will then play another three-match T20I series in Ireland, where they started their white-ball tour last month. However, they have chosen to rest Russell and other members of the coaching and playing staff from that leg.

Holder last participated in Twenty20 Internationals for his nation in February 2024 after suffering an injury that prevented him from playing in the World Cup later that year. Russell's most recent outing was in November against England in Barbados; however, he was unable to continue playing due to an ankle injury.

This will be the first England series for the West Indies since Shai Hope took over as T20I captain in place of Rovman Powell. All-rounders Justin Greaves, Shamar Springer, and Terrance Hinds were unable to find a place in the team, but Powell, who oversaw a 3-0 loss at home against Bangladesh in his last series as skipper, kept his place.

The new Test captain, Roston Chase, will also depart following the England series to return to the Caribbean before Australia's tour, while Keacy Carty will only play in the Ireland T20Is after Brandon King was given leave. In Chase's place, former West Indies U19 player Jyd Goolie receives his maiden call-up.

West Indies Men's T20I squad to play England: Shai Hope (capt), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd.

West Indies Men's T20I squad to play Ireland: Shai Hope (capt), Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Matthew Forde, Jyd Goolie, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd.