West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph will miss the upcoming two-match Test series against India, set to begin on October 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, due to a lower back injury.
Joseph reported discomfort during training, and scans revealed a recurrence of a previous back issue. He had performed strongly in recent Test matches, including the home series against Australia.
Jediah Blades has been named as Joseph’s replacement. Currently playing in a three-match T20I series against Nepal in Sharjah, Blades will join the Test squad in Ahmedabad after completing the T20I series.
Former West Indies captain Jason Holder declined selection as a replacement, citing a planned medical procedure.
With both Joseph and Shamar Joseph recently ruled out, the West Indies’ fast bowling resources are significantly reduced ahead of the India tour. The team has already lost three matches in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle.
The revised West Indies Test squad for India includes: Roston Chase (c), Jomel Warrican (vc), Kevlon Anderson, Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Jediah Blades, Johann Layne, Brandon King, Anderson Phillip, Khary Pierre, and Jayden Seales.
