TOPSHOT – West Indies’ Matthew Forde celebrates taking the wicket of England’s Ben Duckett during the second One Day International (ODI) cricket match between England and West Indies at Sophia Gardens cricket ground in Cardiff on June 1, 2025. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. NO ASSOCIATION WITH DIRECT COMPETITOR OF SPONSOR, PARTNER, OR SUPPLIER OF THE ECB (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
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Matthew Forde has been forced to sit out the ODI series against Pakistan. Ahead of the start of the three-match series starting in Tarouba, Windies pacer dislocated his left shoulder during a training session earlier this week. All-rounder Johann Laynee has replaced the 23-year-old during the ODI series against Pakistan starting on Friday.
“West Indies Academy pacer Johann Layne will replace Matthew Forde in the squad for the three matches against Pakistan starting on Friday. Forde dislocated his left shoulder while attempting a catch during Wednesday’s training session,” the team confirmed the update on X.
Forde’s absence will provide a disadvantage for the team during both orders, after his half-century in 16 balls in May. He currently holds the joint-fastest half-century in ODI history alongside Ab de Villiers’ performance in 2015.
Layne, who is yet to make an international debut, has showcased potential following his performance against South Africa. So far, the 21-year-old has put up “some impressive domestic numbers,” picking up 124 runs and 13 wickets from 12 List A matches.
Layne will join an almost unchanged squad since their England tour. Notably, all-rounder Romario Shepherd will make a return after missing out on the ODI tour in May-June. Shepherd will be replacing Alzarri Joseph, whose rest has been extended. Further, 18-year-old Jewel Andrew, who made the T20I debut against Pakistan, the youngest debutant for the Windies, will be part of the team as well.
On August 4, Pakistan concluded the T20I series with a 2-1 win at Lauderhill, continuing their seventh consecutive series win against the same team. Now, the West Indies will look forward to a chance to redeem themselves in the ODI format in Trinidad & Tobago and strengthen their chances for the 2027 World Cup.
“Pakistan presents a different test and challenge as we continue our push for automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup. While qualifying is our immediate goal, maintaining a winning mentality and team cohesion is essential for long-term success,” Head Coach Daren Sammy stated to the ICC
West Indies squad: Shai Hope (c), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd