WIndies, Scotland name T20 World Cup squad

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Jan. 28: The West Indies and Scotland have announced their final squads for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

According to the International Cricket Council (ICC), the West Indies’ 15-man squad boasts explosive batting, multiple all-round options and a strong pace attack. The two-time champions will be led by Shai Hope, who returns to the side after missing the recent T20I series against Afghanistan.

Also recalled are Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Sherfane Rutherford and Romario Shepherd, as the Windies look to strengthen their campaign. The Caribbean side were beaten 2-1 by Afghanistan in their recent three-match series and will face South Africa in their final warm-up before the tournament.

Berrington to captain Scotland

Scotland have also named their squad, with Richie Berrington continuing as captain. Under new head coach Owen Dawkins, Scotland will make their seventh appearance at the T20 World Cup.

The ICC confirmed Scotland’s inclusion in Group C after Bangladesh withdrew from the tournament citing safety concerns over travelling to India. Scotland previously featured in the inaugural edition of the competition in 2007.

Afghan-born fast bowler Zainullah Ihsan earns his first call-up, having recently qualified to represent Scotland. Former New Zealand international Tom Bruce, 34, is also included to bolster the batting line-up. Bruce has played 17 T20Is for the Black Caps before switching allegiance to Scotland.

Steve Snell, Cricket Scotland’s Head of Performance, expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to adapt to subcontinental conditions.

“The coaching staff, selectors and I are all really excited about the squad that has been picked. We feel it’s well-balanced and caters for a lot of different scenarios and challenges the team will face in India.

There’s a great opportunity for Zainullah Ihsan, who has shown genuine pace and skill at youth and ‘A’ level. We’re delighted for him and eager to see how he performs on his first international tour.

Oli Davidson has worked tirelessly on his skills and shown tremendous desire and work ethic in recent months. He thoroughly deserves his call-up.

All the players are excited to take on the best in the world and grasp the opportunity afforded to them. The squad is full of high-quality cricketers ready to perform and make an impact on the big stage.”

Both West Indies and Scotland are placed in Group C alongside England, Italy and Nepal. The two sides will meet in their opening fixture on 7 February at Eden Gardens.

West Indies squad: 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

Scotland squad: Richie Berrington, Tom Bruce, Matthew Cross, Bradley Currie, Oliver Davidson, Chris Greaves, Zainullah Ihsan, Michael Jones, Michael Leask, Finlay McCreath, Brandon McMullen, George Munsey, Safyaan Sharif, Mark Watt, Bradley Wheal.