West Indies Recall Kemar Roach and Kavem Hodge for New Zealand Test Series
In a strategic move, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has recalled veteran pacer Kemar Roach and middle-order batter Kavem Hodge for the two-Test series against New Zealand. The decision, announced on Thursday, aims to strengthen the squad after recent struggles in Test cricket.
Kemar Roach’s Return to Boost Bowling Attack
Kemar Roach, 35, rejoins the squad with 270 wickets in 79 Tests, bringing critical experience to a pace unit missing injured stars like Shannon Gabriel and Jayden Seales. Known for his swing and seam mastery, Roach’s leadership will guide young quicks Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph in New Zealand’s pace-friendly conditions.
Kavem Hodge’s Second Chance in Middle Order
Kavem Hodge, 30, earns a recall after consistent domestic performances, including standout displays for West Indies A and in the Regional Four-Day Championship. Though his debut against Australia was modest, his ability to anchor innings could stabilize a fragile middle order alongside skipper Kraigg Brathwaite and Jermaine Blackwood.
West Indies Squad: Key Picks and Omissions
The 15-member squad, led by Brathwaite, blends youth (Alick Athanaze, Tagenarine Chanderpaul) and experience. Notable exclusions:
– Rahkeem Cornwall (spin)
– Roston Chase (out of form)
Spin duties fall to Gudakesh Motie, with support from all-rounder Kevin Sinclair. The pace-heavy attack features Roach, Joseph, and Joseph, targeting New Zealand’s batting weaknesses.
New Zealand Challenge: History Against West Indies
The Black Caps dominate at home, with West Indies last winning a Test there in 1995. Facing stars like Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, and a lethal pace duo (Tim Southee, Neil Wagner), the tourists must defy odds to compete.
Fan Reactions and Series Outlook
Fans welcomed Roach’s return for his “big-match temperament” and backed Hodge to shine. The series starts November 30 in Wellington, offering West Indies a chance to revive their Test reputation.
Final Takeaway: Roach and Hodge’s inclusion adds balance, but overcoming New Zealand’s home dominance demands peak performance.
