Sampson selection a good call, as Windies seek to put right pieces together ahead of T20 World Cup

Jan 14, 2026 Sports

– Joseph, Motie, Hetmyer returns also a huge plus

By Clifton Ross

Kaieteur Sports – Guyanese power-hitter Quentin Sampson’s maiden call up to the West Indies T20 squad ahead of the upcoming Afghanistan series is a huge move for the Caribbean side; who have named a star-studded 16-man unit with some of their premier players being afforded rest, while a few big-name stars make a return.

The 25-year-old Sampson, who earned his Breakout Player of the 2025 Caribbean Premier League award after slamming a few 50’s for the Guyana Amazon Warriors last season, will now look to play a key role in the West Indies team, which will need as much firepower as it can field, against some of the most notorious T20 hitters in the world.

Sampson selection a good call, as Windies seek to put right pieces together ahead of T20 World Cup

Quentin Sampson (CPL T20 via Getty Images)

Windies selectors have opted for an aggressive batting composition ahead of the Afghan series which starts next Monday in the Dubai Cricket International Stadium in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from January 19–22; adding/recalling renowned pinch-hitters like Evin Lewis, Johnson Charles, Shimron Hetmyer, stand-in skipper Brandon King and newcomer Sampson.

The Windies have also opted to add a few touch batsmen to the mix, with stylish player such as Amir Jangoo, Keacy Carty, and Justin Greaves along with Alick Athanaze all being capable of anchoring the innings while still playing their shots if necessary; further adding great balance to the side.

While a few key hitters have either been rested like in the case of Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd and Jason Holder ahead of their possible roles for the World Cup; players like Sampson can easily cement their spot in the team should he have a breakout series against Afghanistan.

One huge plus for the Windies is the confirmation that speedster, Shamar Joseph is cleared and ready to return to action, following his recovery from injury. The Guyanese, who has been one of the Caribbean side’s main strike bowlers in Test cricket; will most certainly play a huge role in the fast-bowling department; alongside the likes of Shamar Springer, Jayden Seales, Matthew Forde and Ramon Simmons.

Gudakesh Motie

Guyanese spinner Gudakesh Motie also returns to the squad having played his last T20I back in October 2025 against Bangladesh. Motie will have a huge shot at reminding the world of his class, as his selection is a clear indication of a need for a seasoned left-arm spinner; given Akeal Hosein among others being unavailable due to commitments in the ongoing SA20 tournament.

Shamar Joseph

Hosein, Windies T20 Captain Shai Hope, all-rounder Roston Chase and the in-form Sherfane Rutherford will all fit into the squad by the time the Cup arrives next month, leaving King to once again take up the role of skipper as he looks to marshal the 16-member squad against the Afghans.

Hetmyer, who last played International T20 against Australia during the summer of 2025, will also have another chance to reclaim his spot in the team ahead of the World Cup, as he looks to rejuvenate his career across all formats.

The current squad will be using the upcoming 3-match series as preparation ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup; which bowls off on February 6. The team will also tangle in a three-match T20I series against South Africa set for January 27–31.

Meanwhile, pacer Alzarri Joseph, who picked up an injury last 2025, has been making progress in his return-to-play programme but has not been selected following a medical review and will continue to be monitored and have his progress assessed before the start of the World Cup.

Discover more from Kaieteur News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Gudakesh Motie, Quentin Sampson, Shamar Joseph, T20 World Cup, West Indies, Windies

Latest News