West Indies Unveils Test Squad For The Pakistan Tour; Amir Jangoo Earns Maiden Call-up

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced a 15-member squad for an eagerly awaited two-match Test series against Pakistan, scheduled from January 16 to 28, 2025. This series holds special significance as it marks the West Indies’ return to Pakistan for Test cricket after an 18-year hiatus, making it one of the most anticipated tours in recent memory. As the series forms part of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, the stakes are high for both teams aiming to leave their mark.

A Historic Comeback to Pakistan

The West Indies’ last Test tour to Pakistan was in the 2006-07 season, a time when legends like Brian Lara graced the game. Since then, a variety of factors, including security concerns, kept the West Indies away from playing longer formats in Pakistan. However, the 2025 tour symbolizes a new chapter in cricketing diplomacy and camaraderie between the two cricketing nations.

For fans, this tour is steeped in nostalgia and anticipation. The return of Test cricket between these two sides on Pakistani soil rekindles memories of some iconic matches from the past, while also offering a chance to witness fresh talent on both sides.

Squad Composition: Blending Experience and Youth

Kraigg Brathwaite’s Leadership

The squad will be led by the reliable opener Kraigg Brathwaite, who has been the bedrock of West Indies’ batting in the longest format. Known for his ability to grind out runs and anchor innings, Brathwaite’s experience will be crucial in navigating Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack in home conditions.

Joshua Da Silva as Vice-Captain

Brathwaite is supported by Joshua Da Silva, the vice-captain and wicketkeeper-batter. Da Silva has steadily grown into one of the team’s most dependable players, often delivering under pressure. His dual role as a wicketkeeper and a middle-order batter adds depth to the squad.

Key Inclusions and Notable Absences

The 15-member squad includes a mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging stars, with some notable returns and exciting new faces:

Gudakesh Motie’s Comeback

After missing the recent drawn Test series against Bangladesh, Gudakesh Motie returns to bolster the spin department. The left-arm spinner has proven his mettle in both Tests and ODIs, and his ability to extract turn on subcontinental pitches could play a decisive role in the series.

Amir Jangoo’s Debut

One of the most exciting stories heading into the series is the inclusion of Amir Jangoo, the left-handed batter who earned his maiden Test call-up. Jangoo recently made headlines with a match-winning ODI century on debut against Bangladesh, showcasing his temperament and skill. His promotion to the Test side highlights the West Indies’ faith in nurturing young talent.

Bowling Line-Up: Roach and Seales Lead the Pack

The pace attack is spearheaded by veteran Kemar Roach and the young, fiery Jayden Seales. Roach’s experience and Seales’ raw pace make for a potent combination capable of troubling even the best batters.

In the spin department, alongside Motie, the squad includes Jomel Warrican and the versatile Kevin Sinclair, ensuring a well-rounded attack tailored to exploit Pakistan’s conditions.

Challenges and Opportunities for the West Indies

The two-match series is pivotal for the West Indies, not just for the historical significance but also for their standing in the World Test Championship. Here are some key challenges and opportunities for the visitors:

1. Adapting to Subcontinental Conditions

Playing in Pakistan means facing turning pitches and a relentless spin attack. The West Indies batters will need to showcase patience and technical finesse against the likes of Abrar Ahmed and Naseem Shah, who thrive in these conditions.

2. Building a Strong Middle Order

The absence of consistent performances from the middle order has been a long-standing issue for the West Indies. Players like Keacy Carty, Alick Athanaze, and debutant Amir Jangoo have a golden opportunity to cement their places by delivering match-defining contributions.

3. Utilizing Spin Resources

With three spinners in the squad, the West Indies will look to exploit conditions favoring turn. The return of Motie and the inclusion of Sinclair provide captain Brathwaite with options to experiment and strategize.

The Pakistan Challenge

Playing in their own backyard, Pakistan will be a formidable opponent. Fresh off some strong performances in recent series, the hosts are likely to field a balanced side led by Babar Azam. Pakistan’s mix of fiery pacers and crafty spinners presents a stern test for the visiting side.

World Test Championship Context

The series is the final leg of the WTC 2023-25 cycle for the West Indies. While they are out of contention for a spot in the final, every match still carries significance for the team’s growth and ranking. For Pakistan, the series is a chance to solidify their position in the standings and push for a spot in the summit clash.

Schedule and Venues

The series will be played across two iconic venues in Pakistan:

1st Test: January 16–20, Karachi
2nd Test: January 24–28, Rawalpindi

These venues offer contrasting conditions—Karachi often favors spinners, while Rawalpindi’s pitch has traditionally assisted pacers, providing a well-rounded challenge for the visiting side.

West Indies Squad for Pakistan Series

Kraigg Brathwaite (c)
Joshua Da Silva (vc)
Alick Athanaze
Keacy Carty
Justin Greaves
Kavem Hodge
Tevin Imlach
Amir Jangoo
Mikyle Louis
Gudakesh Motie
Anderson Phillip
Kemar Roach
Kevin Sinclair
Jayden Seales
Jomel Warrican

A Series to Remember

The West Indies’ historic return to Pakistan for Test cricket after nearly two decades is a momentous occasion, not just for the teams involved but for cricket as a whole. This series represents a blend of tradition and renewal—a chance to rekindle an old rivalry while showcasing the talents of a new generation.

For the West Indies, the tour is an opportunity to make a statement in challenging conditions. With a well-balanced squad under the capable leadership of Kraigg Brathwaite, they will aim to overcome the odds and script a memorable chapter in their cricketing history.

As the cricketing world awaits the first ball on January 16, all eyes will be on Karachi, where the past meets the present in a celebration of the game’s enduring legacy.

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