West Indies have announced a 15-member squad for their upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, with 23-year-old middle-order batter Kevin Wickham receiving his maiden international call-up. Experienced batter Shai Hope and fast bowler Alzarri Joseph have been left out as part of workload management.

Wickham earned his opportunity after an impressive run in domestic cricket. He scored centuries in three consecutive innings during the latest edition of the West Indies Championship. The 23-year-old has now recorded six centuries in 25 first-class matches, making a strong case for his selection.

Opener John Campbell has returned to the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury, while Kirk McKenzie has been dropped. Fast-bowling all-rounder Keemo Paul has also returned to the Test side in Joseph’s absence. Paul made his Test debut in Bangladesh in 2018 but has not played the format since 2019.

Cricket West Indies said Joseph was withdrawn from the series following routine medical assessments and specialist advice. The decision was made with the fast bowler’s agreement as part of a workload-management plan designed to reduce injury risks associated with the physical demands of red-ball cricket. Consecutive Test matches can require fast bowlers to deliver repeated spells at high intensity over extended periods.

Hope will also miss the tour as West Indies manage his workload ahead of next year’s ODI World Cup qualification campaign. The absence means he will have to wait for the opportunity to reach his 50th Test appearance.

The series is important for Bangladesh as they look to strengthen their position in the ICC World Test Championship. The two-Test series is scheduled to begin on October 28, with West Indies set to play a three-day warm-up match before the first Test.

West Indies players not involved in the T20I series during the team’s India tour are preparing at the Chennai Super Kings Academy. They are scheduled to travel to Bangladesh on Sunday.

West Indies squad:
Roston Chase (captain), Jomel Warrican (vice-captain), Joshua Bishop, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Keemo Paul, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales and Kevin Wickham.