Chemar Holder, Shamarh Brooks return as West Indies announce 17-man provisional squad for Pakistan Tests

Cricket West Indies has announced a 17-man provisional squad for the two-match Test series against Pakistan, which gets underway on August 12 (Thursday).  The selectors have recalled fast bowler Chemar Holder and middle-order batsman Shamarh Brooks for this series, and the duo would be determined to make a mark. Notably, this home series will also mark the start of West Indies’ campaign in the second inaugural World Test Championship cycle.

Hence, Kraigg Brathwaite’s men would be raring to emerge victoriously.  Notably, batter Darren Bravo and fast bowler Shannon Gabriel are two of the notable exclusions from the squad. Speaking of their axing, chief selector Roger Harper said Gabriel has been given time to attain full fitness. At the same time, Bravo, who has been a part of the bio-bubble since the South Africa series in June, has been granted a break from the bio-bubble.

“Shannon Gabriel has been given time to rehab fully and build his conditioning, so he was not part of the preparations for the Test series against Pakistan, which included the Best v Best game. Darren Bravo has been part of the ‘bubble’ from the preparation camp leading into the Betway Test series against South Africa and has been given a break,” Harper said in a statement released by Cricket West Indies.

Chemar Holder will bolster the fast bowling department: Roger Harper

Commenting on the returnees, Harper asserted Chemar’s addition will bolster the bowling line-up while Shamarh Brooks has been awarded a place for scoring a brilliant ton recently.

“Chemar Holder returns, having recovered from his injury. He will bolster the fast bowling department. Shamarh Brooks batted his way into the provisional squad by scoring an accomplished century. He will certainly add some depth to the squad’s batting,” he added.

Meanwhile, both Test matches will be played at Sabina Park in Jamaica. While the first game gets underway on August 12, the second match will start on August 20. The Caribbean team certainly has a point to prove as their last outing in this format wasn’t fruitful by any means. South Africa defeated them 2-0 as West Indies got outplayed at home. Hence, it would be interesting to see how they tackle the Pakistan challenge.

West Indies’ Provisional squad for Test series against Pakistan: Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Jermaine Blackwood (Vice Captain), Nkrumah Bonner, Shamarh Brooks, Rahkeem Cornwall, Roston Chase, Joshua Da Silva, Jahmar Hamilton, Chemar Holder, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Kyle Mayers, Kieran Powell, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Jomel Warrican