Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced its list of international contracts for the 2025-26 season, making three major changes in the men’s category. Former Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite, Joshua Da Silva, and Kavem Hodge have been left out, while Justin Greaves, Sherfane Rutherford, and Jomel Warrican have been added to the 15-player list.
In the women’s international retainers list, fast bowlers Jannillea Glasgow and Shawnisha Hector have been included in the 13-member group, while Shamilia Connell, Cherry-Ann Fraser, Chedean Nation, and Rashada Williams have missed out.
The core group remains largely unchanged. Among men, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, and Jayden Seales have retained their contracts. On the women’s side, Hayley Matthews, Stafanie Taylor, Deandra Dottin, and Shemaine Campbelle continue in the squad. These contracts will be effective from 1 October 2025.
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CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, stated that the retainers were awarded “based on current performances, long-term potential, and with a clear focus on our broader strategy for key global tournaments.” He emphasised that these decisions align with West Indies cricket’s pathway towards long-term success.
Additionally, Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Johann Layne, Jahzara Claxton, and Rieliana Grimond have been offered initial (developmental) contracts. Apart from this, 15 male players and 14 female players have been given academy contracts.
West Indies cricket, both men’s and women’s, is trying to rebuild its identity after a string of disappointing performances. The women’s team failed to qualify for the ongoing ODI World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, though they did defeat South Africa in a T20 series in June.
The men’s side lost their home Test series against Australia in July, getting bowled out for just 27 in the final innings, which triggered an emergency meeting. They later suffered a 2-1 T20 series loss to Nepal in September. However, they managed to beat Pakistan in an ODI series at home in August, though they went on to lose the T20 series in the same tour.