The West Indies, led by Shai Hope, are set to make their mark at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, starting on February 7. Recently, the team faced South Africa in a three-match T20I series, losing the first two matches but managed to secure a win in the rain-affected third game.
Before that, the West Indies lost 2-1 to Afghanistan in another series.
To be successful in the T20 World Cup, the Windies need to improve their bowling, which was lacking against the South Africans. While their batting showed promise, consistent bowling will be crucial for making an impact in the tournament.
In Group C, the West Indies will compete against England, Scotland, Italy, and Nepal. Overall, 20 teams are split into four groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the Super 8 stage.
The final match of the T20 World Cup will be held on March 8, and India and Sri Lanka will co-host this edition, marking the 10th T20 World Cup.
The West Indies have previously won the T20 World Cup twice, in 2012 and 2016, and they aim to clinch their third title.
Key players in the 15-member West Indies squad include all-rounders and a strong batting lineup led by Hope. The team’s focus will be on delivering an all-round performance with consistency.
West Indies squad for T20 World Cup: Shai Hope (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd.
Strengths of the West Indies
The West Indies have a strong batting lineup. Shai Hope, Brandon King, and Johnson Charles bring significant experience to the team. King has scored 1881 runs for the West Indies at an average of 26.49, and he shares the record for the most fifties (14) for the team. Charles has 1525 runs from 69 matches at 22.42. Hope is nearing 1500 runs, with a current total of 1455 runs at an average of 29.10.
Shimron Hetmyer adds strength to the middle order, with 1345 runs at an average of 22.79 from 75 matches. The team also benefits from experienced all-rounders like Rovman Powell, who has 2112 runs at 25.75 and a strike rate of 141.46, and Sherfane Rutherford, who has scored 651 runs at 19.72.
Roston Chase is another key all-rounder, contributing 713 runs at 23.76. Jason Holder, a seasoned all-rounder, adds depth with nearly 750 runs for the West Indies. Romario Shepherd is also a vital all-rounder with 75 wickets and 829 runs.
In terms of spin options, Gudakesh Motie (39 wickets at 28.05) and Akeal Hosein (86 wickets at 26.36) are strong performers. Chase contributes as a third spin option, with 34 wickets from 52 matches at 28.67.
The West Indies’ pace attack is led by Holder, the team’s highest wicket-taker with 98 wickets. Shepherd and Rutherford will support him, along with Shamar Joseph.
Weaknesses of the West Indies
Consistency is a concern for the Windies. While they have talented players, they need to deliver reliable performances. Recent matches have shown that they struggle with bowling, especially in death overs. Joseph and Jayden Seales lack the necessary firepower, with economy rates above 10.
Shepherd has been useful but also has a high economy rate that could be problematic. The batters must improve their performance in the middle overs, particularly against spin bowlers.
Predicted starting XI of West Indies: Brandon King, Shai Hope (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Holder, Gudakesh Motie, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph.
Players to watch out for
Shimron Hetmyer: Hetmyer is familiar with the conditions in the subcontinent, having played many IPL matches. After a solid performance against South Africa, he’ll be looking to continue his form.
Verdict: West Indies may find it tough to reach the semi-finals.
Despite the strength of their all-rounders, the West Indies could have difficulties reaching the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals. Issues like death-bowling, a relatively weak attack, and inconsistency could hinder their performance. While they might make it to the Super 8 stage, advancing to the semi-finals might be challenging.
Schedule of the West Indies in the 2026 T20 World Cup
7 February – West Indies vs Scotland, Eden Gardens Stadium, Kolkata
11 February – England vs West Indies, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
15 February – West Indies vs Nepal, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
19 February – West Indies vs Italy, Eden Gardens Stadium, Kolkata
The team’s first match will kick off at 3:00 PM IST, the second at 7:00 PM IST, and the next two group games at 11:00 AM IST.
