MCCOY IN AS WEST INDIES FINALISE T20 WORLD CUP

It’s been a good weekend for Obed McCoy, with the Paarl Royals left-arm quick helping the West Indies secure a T20I series clean-sweep over South Africa and being drafted into their final T20 World Cup squad.

McCoy, who took nine wickets during Betway SA20 Season 2, has replaced Jason Holder (who played for Durban’s Super Giants in the inaugural season) in the West Indies’ squad after the ex-captain was ruled out through injury. The 27-year-old took five wickets in the series against the Proteas, including 3/39 in the third match on Sunday.

In confirming the developments, Desmond Haynes, Lead Selector of Cricket West Indies and legendary batter, praised McCoy’s skills.

“While it is unfortunate to lose a player of Jason's caliber, we are confident in the abilities of Obed McCoy. Obed has shown remarkable skill and promise in his performances, and this opportunity will allow him to further showcase his talent on the international stage. We believe he will bring a fresh and dynamic energy to the squad.”

With the final squads having now been submitted to the International Cricket Council (ICC), West Indies have also confirmed their list of standby players should any further injuries occur. Two further SA20-signed players are among the five players, namely Kyle Mayers (Durban’s Super Giants) and Fabian Allen (Paarl Royals).

Mayers played seven matches for DSG in 2023 but only a single match in Season 2 as Lance Klusener juggled his overseas player riches. Allen, meanwhile, played eight matches in pink, claiming two wickets and having one memorable cameo with the bat to beat Joburg Super Kings at the Wanderers.

WEST INDIES 2024 T20 WORLD CUP FINAL SQUAD

Rovman Powell (captain), Alzarri Joseph (vice-captain), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope, Akeal Hossain, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Obed McCoy (Paarl Royals), Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran (Durban’s Super Giants), Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd (Joburg Super Kings).

Reserves: Fabian Allen (Paarl Royals), Andre Fletcher, Matthew Forde, Kyle Mayers (Durban’s Super Giants), Hayden Walsh Jr.