New faces included in GAW squad as 2025 CPL player draft conducted

The Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) today unveiled a powerful 14-member squad for the upcoming Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
Set to begin in St. Kitts and Nevis on Thursday, August 14, this year’s CPL will conclude at the Guyana National Stadium once again, on Sunday, September 21.
While the Amazon Warriors have retained the majority of last year’s international players in Imran Tahir, Moeen Ali and Dwaine Pretorius, they have landed a major international signing in New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips.
Phillips is no stranger to the CPL, having suited up for the Barbados Royals and Jamaica Tallawahs, with a CPL century under his belt, slammed back in 2018.
In addition to Phillips, the Amazon Warriors have also signed Pakistani-born all-rounder Hassan Khan, who had joined the franchise last year for the inaugural ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20.
The Warriors’ campaign is further bolstered by the return of key local stars Shimron Hetmyer, Romario Shepherd, and Gudakesh Motie, forming a well-rounded unit with both international firepower and homegrown strength. On the local arena, the Warriors sought to draft several familiar faces, including Kemol Savory, Kevlon Anderson, Quentin Sampson and Riyad Latif, all of whom recently flexed their skills at the inaugural Cricket West Indies (CWI) Breakout League.
St Lucia Kings
For other teams in the draft, defending champions St Lucia Kings will be without the services of last year’s captain, Faf du Plessis, and highest wicket-taker, Norr Ahmad. However, they have recruited the services of Australian all-rounder Tim David and South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, who had previous stints with the team.
Building on the momentum of their 2024 championship triumph, the Kings have wisely retained the core squad that led them to glory. They’ve further strengthened their roster with the inclusion of promising leg-spinner Micah McKenzie, one of the region’s brightest young prospects, and the return of Javelle Glen, who rejoins the side after previously featuring in their 2020 campaign.
Barbados Royals
The Barbados Royals entered the draft having already secured the core of a powerful and well-balanced squad. While the Barbados Royals have signed Afghanistan’s Mujeeb ur Rahman and acquired Sherfane Rutherford and Brandon King through trades, those will be complemented by the dynamic Quinton de Kock and the versatile Azmatullah Omarzai – giving the Royals formidable firepower at the top and middle of the order.
With two overseas player slots still to be confirmed, the Royals are expected to announce additional international signings in the coming weeks, adding further depth to their already impressive roster.
Demonstrating a strong commitment to regional talent development, the Royals have also drafted standout performers from the inaugural West Indies Breakout League. Among them are promising leg-spinner Zishan Motara and leading batter Kofi James, both of whom will be looking to make a significant impact this CPL season.
Trinbago Knight Riders
On the other hand, the Trinbago Knight Riders have retained the backbone of their experienced Trinidadian core, with Kieron Pollard, Nicholas Pooran, and Sunil Narine all set to return. The addition of T20 powerhouse Andre Russell further boosts their already impressive line-up, bringing additional firepower and match-winning pedigree.
In a major overseas coup, the Knight Riders have signed ICC T20 World Cup winner Alex Hales, along with Mohammad Amir, one of the most consistent and successful bowlers in CPL history. The team also welcomes back Colin Munro, the leading overseas run scorer in CPL history, who has already lifted the trophy four times with the franchise.
Darren Bravo, a long-serving Knight Riders stalwart, makes his return to the side in a squad packed with star power, experience, and championship pedigree.
Antigua and Barbuda Falcons
The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons have built a formidable bowling attack for their 2025 campaign, blending international experience with exciting local talent. Leading the charge is Bangladesh legend Shakib Al Hasan, whose all-round prowess and vast T20 experience will be invaluable. He is joined by fellow internationals Imad Wasim and Naveen-ul-Haq, adding variety and depth to the Falcons’ bowling arsenal.
The local contingent has also been significantly bolstered. Obed McCoy and Rahkeem Cornwall, both acquired from the Barbados Royals, bring CPL experience and wicket-taking ability. During the draft, the Falcons further strengthened their pace stocks with the additions of Jayden Seales and Odean Smith.
St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots
Finally, the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots made a strong statement ahead of the 2025 draft with two high-profile acquisitions: Jason Holder and Alick Athanaze, both joining from the Barbados Royals. The Patriots also welcome back big-hitting South African Rilee Rossouw and dynamic all-rounder Corbin Bosch.
Further strengthening their lineup, the team has added promising Trinidadian spin-bowling all-rounders Jyd Goolie and Navin Bidaisee, adding depth and versatility to both the batting and bowling departments.
Following its commencement in St Kitts, this year’s Republic Bank CPL will move to Antigua and Barbuda, St Lucia, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago, then to Guyana, with each team playing 5 home matches before the playoffs.