The West Indies team, which is presently in Zimbabwe, faces a severe scheduling conflict between its white-ball and red-ball engagements, which is not an ideal circumstance for preparing for international assignments. Cricket West Indies (CWI) has acknowledged the issue and stated that it is evaluating multiple options to avert a possible crisis.
Three days after the conclusion of the World Cup Qualifiers 2023 on July 9 in Zimbabwe, the Caribbean team is scheduled to commence a Test series against India in Dominica on July 12. The logistical difficulty of traveling from Harare to Roseau, the capital of the Caribbean Island, complicates matters. Apparently, normal international travel would require close to two days.
Typically, CWI’s teams for white ball and red ball matches have been distinct, but there is some overlap in this instance. Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers, Roston Chase, and Alzarri Joseph are currently participating in the CWC qualifiers in Zimbabwe. In fact, all four were members of the XI that defeated the United States by 39 runs on June 18.
Their second match, against Nepal, will take place on Thursday (22 June). They face hosts Zimbabwe in a crucial group (A) match on June 24, followed by the Netherlands two days later. The Super Sixes stage, for which the West Indies are anticipated to qualify, runs from June 29 to July 7.
Chief selector Desmond Haynes did not respond to a CricAdvisor inquiry, but a CWI representative involved in the planning stated that alternative arrangements are being made. “We have multiple options, but first we need to qualify for the CWC,” the official told CricAdvisor. They intend to discharge the four players prior to the final, as the tournament’s championship match has little impact on World Cup qualification. Reaching the final is sufficient.
“The CWCQ final is meaningless, so our Test players will not participate,” the official continued, adding, “but first we must reach the final.” It would be surprising if the two-time defending champions did not qualify, but the West Indies have always been an unpredictable team.
