WI take on Bangladesh in crucial 3-match ODI series

The West Indies team are set to play the first of three One-Day International (ODI) matches against Bangladesh on Saturday, with both teams aiming for a strong start in the contest, which forms part of the qualification pathway to the International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket World Cup 2027.
The ICC men’s ODI World Cup will be hosted in three nations: South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

Ahead of the first match, West Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy highlighted the challenges his side were facing in Bangladesh and stressed the importance of adjusting to local conditions.
“The Captain has not seen the wicket, but I have. I’m not sure if we could replicate it. We’ve never seen anything like that before,” Sammy said. “We all know the challenge the subcontinent brings, especially to our batters. Coming from India is an advantage for the guys who have gotten used to similar conditions. At the end of the day, it’s about experience, knowledge, and applying oneself at the crease. Assessing conditions quickly and understanding what is required is key.”
He added that some of the players may find the conditions unfamiliar, but would need to learn and adapt during play. “Some of the guys, it’s probably foreign to them, but the learning will have to be done while you play. You assess the conditions and decide what is required in order to be successful.”
Leading the men in maroon is Shai Hope, who emphasised the need for focus and respect for the opposition, referencing Bangladesh’s strength at home. “One thing I always say when we speak about cricket is that the better team on the day wins, Hope stated.
“Regardless of previous results, it’s important to play cricket on the day. We understand that Bangladesh is a powerful team, especially in their own conditions. West Indies coming here in these foreign conditions, we understand the challenge.”
The West Indies skipper added that while previous performances provide perspective, success would depend on execution on the field. “We see what they’ve done in the recent past, and that could motivate them. We’re definitely not taking that lightly. It’s important for us to understand what’s happened before, but in the end, cricket is played on the day, and the better team must win.”
The first ODI in Dhaka marks the beginning of a key series for the West Indies, who are seeking to strengthen their position in the World Cup qualification standings. Bangladesh, meanwhile, will look to capitalise on home advantage to set the tone for the series.

The squads:
West Indies: Shai Hope (Captain); Alick Athanaze; Ackeem Auguste; Jediah Blades; Keacy Carty; Roston Chase; Justin Greaves; Amir Jangoo; Shamar Joseph; Brandon King; Gudakesh Motie; Khary Pierre; Sherfane Rutherford; Jayden Seales and Romario Shepherd.
Bangladesh: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Captain); Hasan Mahmud; Jaker Ali; Mahidul Islam Ankon; Mustafizur Rahman; Najmul Hossain Shanto; Nurul Hasan; Rishad Hossain; Saif Hassan; Shamim Hossain; Soumya Sarkar; Tanvir Islam; Tanzid Hasan; Tanzim Hasan Sakib; Taskin Ahmed and Towhid Hridoy.