West Indies announce white-ball squad for the Australia tour, Shimron Hetmyer left out

In a recent turn of events, West Indies cricketer Shimron Hetmyer finds himself on the sidelines, omitted from both the ODI and T20I squads for the upcoming series against Australia. The exclusion comes on the heels of Hetmyer being dropped against England late last year, where he struggled to find form.

Jason Holder and Kyle Mayers, who opted out of the Test tour due to franchise commitments, have entered the T20I squad. However, the duo is conspicuously absent from the ODI lineup, which Shai Hope captains. The ODI squad boasts potential debutants Teddy Bishop and Tevin Imlach, alongside the recalled allrounders Justin Greaves and Kavem Hodge, and legspinner Hayden Walsh Jr.

The omission of Hetmyer, with an ODI average of 32.23 and a strike rate of 104.55, suggests a shift in the team's strategy after his recent struggles against England. Chief selector Desmond Haynes expressed optimism about the ODI team's competitiveness in Australia, citing new inclusions and returning players as crucial factors.

"On the back of a series win against England, we are expecting our ODI team to be very competitive in Australia. We have some new inclusions, who have impressed over a significant period, and a couple of returning players, who we think will have an impact," lead selector Desmond Haynes said as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.

"For the T20I series, this forms part of our crucial preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup where we are hosts. We are hoping to build on strong overall performances against India and England and to keep improving as we approach the major tournament," he added.

The ODIs are scheduled for February 2, 4, and 6 in Melbourne, Sydney, and Canberra, respectively. The T20Is will follow in Hobart, Adelaide, and Perth on February 9, 11, and 13. Steven Smith will lead Australia in the ODIs, with the T20I squad yet to be announced, but David Warner's inclusion is expected.