West Indies adjust squad for New Zealand series after Greaves injury

Providence, July 13 – The West Indies Cricket Board has confirmed a squad change ahead of the second and third one‑day internationals against New Zealand. All‑rounder Justin Greaves, sidelined by a back injury, will miss the two matches, and selectors have turned to Shimron Hetmyer for the left‑hand batting slot.

Greaves was listed as a substitute in the first ODI, which West Indies won by seven wickets. After the match, medical examinations revealed the need for extended rest, and he has returned to Barbados to continue his recovery. The board will reassess his availability before the final two ODIs and the upcoming two‑Test series versus Pakistan.

Hetmyer’s return is facilitated by an early conclusion to his commitments with the Seattle Orcas in the Major League Cricket competition. The Orcas did not progress to the playoffs, freeing Hetmyer to rejoin the national side. In the league, he recorded 164 runs at an average of 20.50 and a strike rate of 136.66, including a half‑century.

The West Indies now lead the five‑match series 1‑0 after the opening victory. The remaining fixtures will move from Providence to Bridgetown after the first three games. A revised XI for the upcoming ODIs will be announced later this week after Greaves’ fitness is re‑evaluated.