… Experienced spinners Anisa Mohammed and Afy Fletcher among 15-player group

STAFANIE Taylor has been named captain of West Indies’ 15-player squad for the Women’s World Cup, which begins in New Zealand next month.

Taylor recently missed the final match of West Indies’ ODI series in South Africa after sustaining a concussion. Anisa Mohammed, who led the side in Taylor’s absence, has been appointed vice-captain for the World Cup, in which the experienced off-spinner goes one wicket shy of reaching 300 in international cricket.

There are five players in the squad who could make their World Cup debuts – Aaliyah Alleyne, Cherry Ann Fraser, Chinelle Henry, Karishma Ramharack and Rashada Williams – while leg-spinner Afy Fletcher is included, having made her comeback after maternity leave in South Africa.

West Indies have also named three travelling reserves as part of the tournament’s COVID-19 protocols: Kaysia Schultz, Mandy Mangru and Jannillea Glasgow.

“The squad selected shows a blend of youth and experience,” selector Ann Browne-John said. “We have Anisa Mohammed who’s playing in her fifth World Cup and will help guide the younger ones selected. We have five players who have had their maiden Cricket World Cup selection.

“The team just completed a series against South Africa where the players got good preparation before the tournament. There were some relatively good showings with a few players having outstanding performances and it is expected that they would raise their levels even further during the competition.

“Afy Fletcher’s return strengthens the bowling department as she continues to be a world-class leg-spinner.”

Having travelled to New Zealand from South Africa, West Indies have now completed managed isolation and have begun their preparations for the World Cup in Christchurch. They will help kick off the tournament when they take on the hosts at Bay Oval on March 4.

West Indies World Cup squad: Stafanie Taylor (capt.), Anisa Mohammed, Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Shamilia Connell, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Cherry Ann Fraser, Chinelle Henry, Kycia Knight, Hayley Matthews, Chedean Nation, Karishma Ramharack, Shakera Selman, Rashada Williams
Travelling reserves: Kaysia Schultz, Mandy Mangru, Jannillea Glasgow. (Cricinfo)