Why has Alzarri Joseph been ruled out of the West Indies Tests against India?
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Synopsis
West Indies pacer Alzarri Joseph's withdrawal from the upcoming Tests against India due to a lower-back injury is a significant setback for the team. As they prepare for their first match in Ahmedabad, they now face the challenge of filling his shoes with their squad already impacted by injuries.
Key Takeaways
- Alzarri Joseph ruled out due to lower back injury.
- West Indies team is in Ahmedabad for training.
- Jediah Blades replaces Joseph in the squad.
- First Test starts on October 2.
- Joseph has an impressive record of 124 wickets in Test matches.
Ahmedabad, Sep 29 (NationPress) The West Indies cricket team has announced that pacer Alzarri Joseph will not participate in the forthcoming Test series against India due to a recurrence of a lower back injury. Currently, the team is in Ahmedabad for a brief training camp ahead of the first Test scheduled to begin on October 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
This match will be succeeded by the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, commencing on October 10. Joseph has an impressive record, having claimed 124 wickets in 40 Tests at an average of 33.46, alongside scoring 770 runs.
According to a statement from Cricket West Indies (CWI), “After experiencing discomfort, scans revealed a degeneration of the previously resolved lower back injury.”
Moreover, fast-bowling all-rounder Jason Holder has opted out of selection as Joseph's replacement for the series against India due to a planned medical procedure. Consequently, Jediah Blades has been brought in as a substitute for the two Tests.
Blades, who has participated in three ODIs and four T20Is for the West Indies, is anticipated to join the team following their ongoing series in the shorter format against Nepal. This marks the second significant setback for the West Indies ahead of the Tests against India.
Previously, fast bowler Shamar Joseph was ruled out due to an unspecified injury and was succeeded by uncapped pace-bowling all-rounder Johann Layne. Additional bowling options for the West Indies during their tour to India include pacers Jayden Seales and Anderson Phillip, along with all-rounder Justin Greaves.
Spin-bowling responsibilities will be shared by captain Roston Chase, vice-captain Jomel Warrican, and Khary Pierre. The West Indies are yet to begin their campaign in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) points tally.
The updated West Indies Test squad for the series against India includes: Roston Chase (captain), Jomel Warrican (vice-captain), Kevlon Anderson, Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Johann Layne, Jediah Blades, Brandon King, Anderson Phillip, Khary Pierre, Jayden Seales.
Point of View
I believe that the West Indies' recent injury woes highlight the challenges teams face in international cricket. Alzarri Joseph's absence will undoubtedly affect their performance against a strong Indian side. However, it's a chance for new talent to emerge, and we remain hopeful for a competitive series.
NationPress
29/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Alzarri Joseph not playing in the Test series?
Alzarri Joseph has been ruled out of the Test series against India due to a recurrence of a lower back injury.
Who will replace Alzarri Joseph in the squad?
Jediah Blades has been drafted in as a cover for Alzarri Joseph for the two Tests against India.
What is the schedule for the Test series?
The first Test will start on October 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, followed by the second Test on October 10 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
What is Alzarri Joseph's Test record?
Alzarri Joseph has taken 124 wickets in 40 Tests at an average of 33.46, while scoring 770 runs.
Who are the other bowling options for the West Indies?
Other bowling options include Jayden Seales, Anderson Phillip, and all-rounder Justin Greaves.
