West Indies have made a late change to their squad for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, with all-rounder Keemo Paul withdrawing from the upcoming tour. Paul was initially selected as a replacement for fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, who withdrew from the squad following medical assessments and a workload-management decision.

Keemo Paul’s replacement for the Test series against Bangladesh

Though a replacement player, Shamar Springer has earned his place in the Test squad through his performances in domestic cricket. The seam-bowling all-rounder has represented West Indies in three One-Day Internationals and 12 T20 Internationals, but he is yet to make his Test debut.

The 28-year-old has played 23 first-class matches, scoring 1,043 runs at an average of 32.59 and taking 58 wickets at 27.87. These numbers highlight his ability to contribute in both departments, making him a useful addition to a squad preparing for challenging conditions in Bangladesh.

Springer also enjoyed a productive batting campaign in the 2026 West Indies Championship. Representing Barbados, he scored 251 runs in four matches at an average of 50.20. With the ball, he claimed seven wickets across eight innings.

Why is Keemo Paul skipping the Bangladesh tour?

Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed that Paul will return home for personal and family reasons. The board has not disclosed further details, and his withdrawal should not be interpreted as a cricketing or fitness-related decision.

Paul was originally drafted into the squad after Joseph was withdrawn following a routine medical assessment and specialist consultation. Joseph’s workload was being managed to reduce the risk of injury associated with the demands of consecutive Test matches.

Paul’s departure means West Indies have now made two changes to their original pace-bowling plans ahead of the Bangladesh assignment. The team management will need to ensure that its remaining fast bowlers are prepared for the workload expected across the two Tests.

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West Indies set to play a crucial Test series in Bangladesh

The Bangladesh tour represents the final assignment for West Indies in the ongoing WTC 2025–27 cycle. The visitors will look to finish the campaign strongly, although playing in Bangladesh presents its own challenges, particularly for batters and fast bowlers adjusting to local conditions.

Roston Chase will captain the side, with left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican serving as vice-captain. The squad also includes experienced campaigners such as Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales and Shamar Joseph, alongside promising young batter Kevin Wickham, who has earned his maiden Test call-up.

White-ball skipper Shai Hope has been rested, while John Campbell returns after recovering from a hamstring injury.

The series will provide West Indies with an opportunity to finish their WTC campaign on a positive note while testing their depth in unfamiliar conditions.

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