**West Indies Cricket Announces Annual Retainer Contracts for 2025-26 Season**
In a surprising turn of events, Cricket West Indies has left out key players Kraigg Brathwaite, Joshua Da Silva, and Kavem Hodge from the men’s annual retainer contracts for the upcoming 2025-26 season. This decision has put Brathwaite’s immediate future in doubt, leaving fans and supporters speculating about the reasons behind this omission.
On the flip side, Justin Greaves, Sherfane Rutherford, and Jomel Warrican have been added to the 15-player list for the new season, bringing fresh talent and energy to the team. This move indicates a strategic shift in the team’s selection process, focusing on nurturing emerging players and building a strong foundation for the future of West Indies cricket.
In the women’s category, Shamilia Connell, Cherry Ann Fraser, Chedean Nation, and Rashada Williams have been left out of the retainer list, while Jannillea Glasgow and Shawnisha Hector have been added. The women’s team has seen a reduction in the number of players from 15 to 13, highlighting a more streamlined approach to squad selection.
Five players, three men, and two women, have been awarded starter contracts, signifying a vote of confidence in their potential and abilities. Additionally, 15 men and 14 women have received academy contracts, paving the way for their development and growth in the sport. These contracts are set to take effect from October 1, 2025, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for West Indies cricket.
**Men’s Contracts for 2025-26 Season:**
– **Senior Men:** Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Jomel Warrican.
– **Starter Contracts:** Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Johann Layne.
– **Men’s Academy:** Ackeem Auguste, Ryan Bandoo, Jediah Blades, Rivaldo Clarke, Mavendra Dindyal, Giovonte Depeiza, Nathan Edward, Damel Evelyn, Amari Goodridge, Mbeki Joseph, Johann Layne, Zishan Motara, Kelvin Pittman, Renico Smith, Carlon Tuckett.
**Women’s Contracts for 2025-26 Season:**
– **Senior Women:** Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Jannillea Glasgow, Shawnisha Hector, Chinelle Henry, Zaida James, Qiana Joseph, Hayley Matthews, Ashmini Munisar, Stafanie Taylor, Karishma Ramharack.
– **Starter Contracts:** Jahzara Claxton, Realeanna Grimmond.
– **Women’s Academy:** Abigail Bryce, Asabi Callender, NaiJanni Cumberbatch, Shabika Gajanbi, Brianna Harricharan, Trishan Holder, Djenaba Joseph, Nyia Latchman, Samara Ramnath, Amrita Ramtahal, Selena Ross, Shunelle Sawh, Steffie Soogrim, Kate Wilmott.
The announcement of the annual retainer contracts for the 2025-26 season has set the stage for an exciting period in West Indies cricket, with new faces and established players coming together to represent the region on the international stage. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, the focus remains on the team’s performance and the potential for success in the competitive world of cricket.
**Future Outlook for West Indies Cricket: Building a Strong Team for Success**
The exclusion of key players like Brathwaite, Da Silva, and Hodge from the men’s annual retainer contracts has sparked speculation about the direction of West Indies cricket. While this move may seem surprising to some, it signals a shift towards investing in emerging talent and creating a competitive and sustainable team for the future.
Justin Greaves, Sherfane Rutherford, and Jomel Warrican’s inclusion in the retainer list highlights the selectors’ focus on fresh faces and potential game-changers. These players bring a new energy and skill set to the team, enhancing the overall depth and competitiveness of the squad. With a mix of experienced players and young talent, the West Indies team is poised to make a mark in the upcoming season.
In the women’s category, the decision to reduce the number of players on the retainer list reflects a more focused and streamlined approach to squad selection. By investing in a core group of talented individuals like Jannillea Glasgow and Shawnisha Hector, Cricket West Indies aims to create a cohesive and high-performing women’s team that can compete at the highest levels of the sport.
The awarding of starter contracts to promising players in both the men’s and women’s teams showcases the organization’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth. These contracts serve as a stepping stone for young cricketers to prove themselves and earn a permanent spot in the squad, motivating them to excel and contribute to the team’s success.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on the West Indies cricket team as they strive to make an impact on the international stage. With a mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming stars, the team is in a strong position to compete against top-ranking teams and showcase the rich talent pool of the Caribbean region.
The academy contracts awarded to promising players further underline Cricket West Indies’ dedication to developing talent at the grassroots level. By providing resources and support to young cricketers, the organization is laying the foundation for a sustainable and successful future for West Indies cricket. These contracts not only benefit the individual players but also contribute to the overall growth and competitiveness of the sport in the region.
As fans eagerly await the start of the new season, there is a sense of optimism and excitement surrounding the West Indies cricket team. With a renewed focus on talent development, strategic selection processes, and a blend of experience and youth, the team is well-positioned to achieve success and make a mark in the world of cricket. Stay tuned for an action-packed season filled with thrilling matches, stellar performances, and the emergence of new cricketing stars from the vibrant and talented West Indies team.
