Why this series matters
For the first time ever, the West Indies will face Nepal in a bilateral T20 International series. The three matches, all staged at Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates between September 27 and 30, 2025, are part of a broader push to give Caribbean players exposure to sub‑continental conditions ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Since the series sits outside the ICC’s Future Tours Programme, it also signals Cricket West Indies’ willingness to explore new markets and strengthen ties with emerging cricket nations.
Both boards see the encounter as a win‑win. Nepal, a passionate but still‑developing side, gains a chance to test its mettle against a traditionally strong opponent. Meanwhile, the West Indies can fine‑tune strategies, especially with spin‑friendly pitches likely in Sharjah, and assess bench strength without over‑burdening established stars.
Squad breakdown and the five debutants
Head coach Rayon Griffith has handed the captaincy to spinner Akeal Hosein, currently the world’s third‑ranked T20 bowler, despite his lack of prior leadership at the international level. He will be backed by seasoned campaigners Jason Holder, Fabian Allen and Kyle Mayers, who bring balance across pace, power‑hitting and experience.
The selectors have taken a bold step by injecting fresh talent. Five players will earn their first T20I caps:
- Ackeem Auguste – a top‑order batter who lit up the inaugural West Indies Breakout League with a blend of aggression and composure.
- Navin Bidaisee – an all‑rounder whose hard‑hitting lower‑order innings in the Caribbean Premier League caught the selectors’ eye.
- Zishan Motara – a left‑arm spinner praised for his control and variations during the Breakout League.
- Ramon Simmonds – a fast bowler who generated consistent bounce and pace in CPL outings, offering a new option for the West Indian pace attack.
- Amir Jangoo – a wicket‑keeper batsman noted for his acrobatic glovework and quick‑fire runs in domestic tournaments.
These newcomers earned their spots through standout performances in the West Indies Breakout League and the ongoing CPL, highlighting Cricket West Indies’ commitment to rewarding domestic excellence.
Rested for the series are several high‑profile players, including captain Shai Hope, pace spearhead Alzarri Joseph, and explosive opener Johnson Charles. Managing the workload of these veterans is a key part of the board’s long‑term strategy as they head toward the next World Cup.
The full 15‑man roster reads as follows:
- Akeal Hosein (captain)
- Fabian Allen
- Jewel Andrew
- Ackeem Auguste
- Navin Bidaisee
- Jediah Blades
- Keacy Carty
- Karima Gore
- Jason Holder
- Amir Jangoo (wicket‑keeper)
- Kyle Mayers
- Obed McCoy
- Zishan Motara
- Ramon Simmonds
- Shamar Springer
Supporting the squad, Ottis Gibson returns as fast‑bowling consultant, while former leaguers Nikita Miller, Jerome Taylor and Jamal Smith serve as assistant coaches. Their combined expertise is expected to guide both the veterans and newcomers through the unique challenges of Sharjah’s slow‑turning tracks.
Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe summed up the venture: the series is “another important step in broadening the horizons of West Indies cricket” and will deliver “invaluable match experience in different conditions” against a nation eager to make its mark on the global stage. The three games will contest the newly minted Unity Cup, a trophy that promises to become a staple in future scheduling if the inaugural clash proves successful.