West Indies hand Vitel Lawes maiden call-up as spinner eyes debut without professional game

Cricket West Indies has named 19-year-old wrist spinner Vitel Lawes in their 15-member squad for the opening three matches of the five-game ODI series against New Zealand, with the teenager set to potentially make his international debut without having played a single professional cricket match.

The young leggie, who has built his reputation entirely through age-group cricket, earned the maiden senior call-up after an impressive ICC Under-19 World Cup campaign earlier this year. He was named in the Team of the Tournament after claiming 10 wickets and bowling the most dot balls in the competition, standing out for his control and craft.

Lawes has already spent time in the West Indies senior environment, training alongside the team since the preparatory camp held before the recent home series against Sri Lanka. To continue providing specialist support during his transition, spin bowling assistant coach Nikita Miller has been added to the team management unit specifically for the Guyana leg of the series. Head Coach Daren Sammy was clear the selection was part of a deliberate long-term plan.

“The inclusion of Vitel Lawes is strategic as we continue our long-term vision of exposing players who can complement the team in conditions that best suit their skill sets,” Sammy said as quoted by Windies Cricket.

Daren Sammy eyes must-win results ahead of 2027 World Cup

The head coach also framed the series as a key step in the Caribbean side’s preparation for the ICC 50-over World Cup in 2027.

“Every series we play from here on leading up to the 50 Over World Cup, we view them as must-win scenarios. The matches against New Zealand provide the best opportunity for us to continue our improvement as an ODI unit while winning more matches for the people of the Caribbean,” Sammy added.

Shimron Hetmyer has been granted a No Objection Certificate to fulfil his Major League Cricket commitments and does not feature in the squad. Shamar Springer has withdrawn following the passing of his mother, with Keemo Paul named as his replacement.

When does the West Indies vs New Zealand ODI series begin?

The squad assembles in Guyana on Wednesday, July 8. The first ODI is scheduled for Saturday, July 11 at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence, with the second following on Monday, July 13 and the third on Thursday, July 16 before the series moves to Barbados.

West Indies squad for first three ODIs vs New Zealand

Shai Hope (capt, wk), Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Vitel Lawes, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales