Following a disappointing performance in both the ODI and T20I series in Bangladesh, Gudakesh Moti has lost his place in the West Indies squad. The left-arm spinner has been left out of the five-match T20I series against New Zealand in order to work on his bowling action.
In Moti’s absence, Matthew Ford, who had been sidelined with a shoulder injury, has been recalled to the 15-man squad. Additionally, due to injuries to Ramon Simmonds and Zediah Blades, the selectors have included Shamar Springer to bolster the pace attack.
After completing three ODIs and three T20Is against Bangladesh, West Indies now head straight to New Zealand. The T20I series will commence in Auckland on Wednesday and conclude on 13 November.
Moti struggled on the spin-friendly pitches in Mirpur, failing to make a significant impact. He took just four wickets in the three-match ODI series, delivering a number of expensive spells. Subsequently, he was not selected in the playing XI for the first two T20Is.
Being omitted from the New Zealand series will allow Moti to focus on refining his bowling action. Moreover, with New Zealand’s conditions favouring pace rather than spin, West Indies have opted not to include an additional spinner in their squad.
West Indies Squad for New Zealand T20I Series
| Department | Players |
|---|---|
| Pace | Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer, Jaden Sills |
| Spin | Roston Chase, Akil Hossain, Khari Pierre |
| Out/Injured | Gudakesh Moti, Matthew Ford (recalled) |
In the pace department, Jaden Sills is the only other specialist seamer alongside the recalled Ford. The pace-bowling all-rounders include Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer, while the spin attack will rely on Roston Chase, Akil Hossain, and Khari Pierre.
This hiatus gives Moti an opportunity to work on his technique and return stronger for upcoming international fixtures.