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ST JOHN’S: West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been ruled out of the two-match Test series against India due to a lower back injury.
According to the Cricket West Indies (CWI), Joseph experienced discomfort, and follow-up scans revealed the degeneration of a lower back injury.
“Alzarri Joseph has been ruled out of the upcoming test series against India due to a lower back injury,” the CWI wrote on X.
Following the 28-year-old’s injury, West Indies approached all-rounder Jason Holder, who is currently featuring in the T20I series against Nepal in the UAE.
However, he declined to be part of the squad, citing a planned medical procedure. Jason Holder last Test appearance came against
South Africa at Providence in August 2024.
Subsequently, Jedia Blades, who is yet to make his Test debut, has been called up to the side. The 23-year-old is also in the UAE and will join the squad after completing the three-match series against Nepal.
For the unversed, Joseph is the second fast bowler to be ruled out of the series. Last week, ace pacer Shamjar Joseph was ruled out with an injury, with uncapped Johann Layne named as his replacement.
The injuries have left a void in the West Indies fast bowling attack, with Jayden Seales the only one to have played more than ten Tests.
Notably, this will be the West Indies’ first tour of India since 2018. The opening Test is scheduled to begin in Ahmedabad on October 2, whereas the second match is slated to commence in Delhi from October 10.
Roston Chase (capt), Jomel Warrican (vice-capt), 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
