By Rajiv Bisnauth
Fast-rising bowling all-rounder, Romario Shepherd, wants to utilise the upcoming Bangladesh tour to cement his spot in the one-day format, and subsequently a break into the Test team.
Shepherd, a Berbician, was named in a West Indies 15-man squad announced last week by Cricket West Indies (CWI) for the three ODI’s against host, Bangladesh.
“Definitely, it’s an opportunity for me to perform and show the selectors that I belong there, and at the same time cement my place,” Shepherd, who has represented the regional side in five ODI’s and two T20s to date, reckoned.

Last month, Shepherd displayed his true potential when he was a part of the West Indies A tour to New Zealand. It’s that trusting, relaxed environment that’s seen Shepherd develop into a promising all-rounder and feature in the spotlight for all the right reasons.
Shepherd hit 232 runs at an impressive average of 77.3, including a career best 133* and an unbeaten 77.
“That was a great stepping stone for me. That series gave me great confidence just to keep wanting to improve my game and get better,” he said.
The 26-year-old Shepherd, in his 25 first-class matches so far, has taken 74 wickets at an average of 24.62, with a best bowling figure of 5-24.

Meanwhile, Jason Mohammed will captain the West Indies ODI side after regular skipper, Kieron Pollard, opted out of the tour citing concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.
Akeal Hosein, a left-arm spinner/all-rounder; and Kjorn Ottley, a left-handed top-order batsman, earned their first call-ups for the ODI squad.
The three ODI’s are schedule for January 20, 22 and 25.
West Indies ODI Squad: Jason Mohammed (captain), Sunil Ambris (vice-captain), Nkrumah Bonner, Joshua Da Silva, Jahmar Hamilton, Chemar Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Kyle Mayers, Andre McCarthy, Kjorn Ottley, Rovman Powell, Raymon Reifer, Romario Shepherd and Hayden Walsh Jr.