IND vs WI: West Indies Announce 15-Member Squad for India Tests, Craig Brathwaite Dropped After 12 Years

After the conclusion of Asia Cup 2025, Team India will switch focus to Test cricket with a home series against West Indies. This marks the Caribbean team’s first Test tour of India in seven years, with the two-match series beginning on October 2. Ahead of the tour, Cricket West Indies (CWI) unveiled their 15-member squad on Tuesday, 16 September, with a big shock — former captain and veteran opener Craig Brathwaite has been axed.

First omission since 2013

For the first time in 12 years, Brathwaite will not be part of a Test series. The opener, who made his debut in 2011 and has been a consistent presence since December 2013, has been struggling with poor form for a long time. Earlier this year, he stepped down from captaincy following the Pakistan series in January 2025. During the recent Australia Tests, he was even dropped from the playing XI in the third match. His exclusion now confirms a major transition in the West Indies side.

Key changes and comebacks

Compared to the squad that faced Australia in June-July, West Indies have made three changes. The selectors have emphasized players suited to Indian pitches, particularly spinners and batters who handle spin well.

• Tejnarine Chanderpaul returns to the squad after more than 18 months.

• Alick Athanaz, who has played 13 Tests, makes a comeback after missing the Pakistan series in January 2025.

• Khari Pierre, the left-arm spinner, has been handed his maiden Test call-up.

West Indies squad for Test series

• Roston Chase (Captain)

• Jomel Warrican (Vice-Captain)

• Kevelon Anderson

• Alick Athanaz

• John Campbell

• Tejnarine Chanderpaul

• Justin Greaves

• Shai Hope

• Tevin Imlach

• Alzari Joseph

• Shamar Joseph

• Brandon King

• Anderson Phillip

• Khari Pierre

• Jayden Seales

Test series schedule

• October 2–6: 1st Test – Ahmedabad

• October 10–14: 2nd Test – New Delhi