Injured Shamar Joseph ruled out of India Tests; Johann Layne named replacement

West Indies have suffered a major blow ahead of their upcoming two-match Test series against India as star fast bowler Shamar Joseph has been ruled out due to an undisclosed injury. The setback was confirmed by Cricket West Indies (CWI) in a social media announcement, revealing that Johann Layne has been drafted in as Joseph’s replacement for the highly anticipated series.

Layne, a 22-year-old all-rounder from Barbados, brings promising all-round credentials to the squad. In his first-class career so far, Layne has featured in 19 matches, scoring 495 runs in 32 innings, which includes two half-centuries. However, it’s his bowling that has truly impressed the selectors — he has taken 66 wickets at an impressive average of 22.28, with four five-wicket hauls already to his name. His inclusion adds depth and balance to the West Indies pace attack ahead of the challenging series in Indian conditions.

As for Shamar Joseph, the young pacer will now undergo further evaluation before the upcoming Bangladesh white-ball series, which consists of three ODIs and three T20Is, starting October 18. Joseph’s absence is a significant setback for West Indies, as he has been one of their most promising fast bowlers in recent times, known for his raw pace and ability to generate movement with the new ball.

The first Test of the India vs West Indies series is scheduled to begin on October 2 in Ahmedabad, where both teams will look to start the series strongly.

Updated West Indies Squad: Roston Chase (c), Jomel Warrican (vc), Kevlon Anderson, Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Alzarri Joseph, Johann Layne, Brandon King, Anderson Phillip, Khary Pierre, Jayden Seales.