Hope, Holder, Powell named in Windies squad for T20 WC:Quintin Sampson gets rewarded for CPL show; West Indies begin campaign on 7 Feb

West Indies have announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, placing faith in young and hard-hitting batter Quentin Sampson. The two-time world champions have gone with a mix of youth and experience as they aim to make a strong impact in the global tournament. Quentin Sampson, a 25-year-old from Guyana, earned his place after impressive performances in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025. Although his recent T20I debut series against Afghanistan in Dubai did not produce big scores, the selectors have backed his potential and fearless batting approach. Several senior players, who missed recent international action due to league commitments or rest, have also returned to strengthen the squad ahead of the marquee event. Quentin Sampson rewarded for CPL 2025 performance Quentin Sampson made his T20I debut against Afghanistan and scored 35 runs in three innings. While the numbers were modest, his aggressive intent and calm approach under pressure impressed the team management. During CPL 2025, Sampson was the third-highest run-scorer for Guyana Amazon Warriors. He scored 241 runs in nine innings at an impressive strike rate of 151.57. His consistent performances in the tournament played a key role in earning him his maiden international call-up, which has now been extended to the World Cup squad. Senior players return to strengthen Windies line-up West Indies captain Shai Hope returns to lead the side after missing the Afghanistan series due to SA20 commitments. Roston Chase, Akeal Hosein and Sherfane Rutherford have also rejoined the squad after being unavailable earlier. Former captains Jason Holder and Rovman Powell are back in the team, along with all-rounder Romario Shepherd. The return of these experienced players adds depth and balance to the West Indies line-up, especially in pressure situations. Shamar Joseph headlines fast-bowling attack One of the notable inclusions is fast bowler Shamar Joseph. The 26-year-old had a disrupted 2025 season due to injuries and fitness concerns. He missed the India tour with injury and later sat out the ODI series against Bangladesh after suffering shoulder discomfort. Despite limited game time, Joseph featured in two matches against Afghanistan and has been included for his raw pace and wicket-taking ability. He will be supported by a strong pace unit that includes Jason Holder, Matthew Forde and Jayden Seales. Spin strength and World Cup experience The spin department will be led by Akeal Hosein, with Roston Chase and Gudakesh Motie providing valuable support. West Indies have also relied on their rich T20 experience, with 11 players from their home World Cup squad two years ago making a return. However, there was no place for left-handed opener Evin Lewis and fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, both of whom are currently struggling with injuries. Group C challenge and opening match against Scotland West Indies have been placed in Group C alongside England, Scotland, Nepal and Italy. They will begin their campaign on February 7 against Scotland at Eden Gardens, Kolkata — the same venue where they lifted the T20 World Cup trophy during their last title triumph. West Indies Squad for T20 World Cup West Indies squad: Shai Hope (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Johnson Charles, Brandon King, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Quentin Sampson, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales, Matthew Forde.