West Indies Turn to Hetmyer After Greaves Injury in ODI Series

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-07-14

West Indies have called up Shimron Hetmyer for the second and third ODIs against New Zealand after Justin Greaves was forced out of the series with a back injury. Greaves hurt himself during the opening match at Providence, and the team confirmed the change shortly after their seven-wicket win, which gave them a 1-0 lead in the series. This is a big moment for Hetmyer, who hasn't played an ODI since June 2025. He was actually part of the squad for the Sri Lanka series earlier this year but didn't get a game. The selectors originally left him out of the first three ODIs against New Zealand so he could finish his season with the Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket. Now that the Orcas are out of the playoff race, he's free to join the national side. ### Why Hetmyer Got the Call The Seattle Orcas finished fifth in the MLC standings, missing the knockout stage entirely. That meant Hetmyer's franchise obligations were over, and he could finally answer the national call. Over ten MLC matches this season, he scored 164 runs at a strike rate of 136.66, showing he can still accelerate when it matters. West Indies haven't confirmed whether he'll play in the second ODI, but his recent form suggests he'll slot into the lower middle order. That's where he can really make an impact, pushing the scoring rate in the final overs. It's a smart move for a team looking to close out the series. ### Greaves' Injury and What It Means for the Pakistan Tests Cricket West Indies has said Greaves will be reassessed before the squad for the two-match Test series against Pakistan is announced. That series starts right after the ODIs wrap up, so his recovery timeline is critical. Greaves had been in outstanding form, scoring 180 in his last Test innings against Sri Lanka. That performance helped West Indies win their first Test series since 2023, and he was named player of the series. Losing him for the Pakistan Tests would be a huge blow, but the team is hopeful he'll recover in time. ### Squad and Upcoming Fixtures The fourth and fifth ODIs of the series will be played in Bridgetown, a change from Providence where the first three matches are being held. The squad for those final two games will be announced later this week, once there's more clarity on Greaves' recovery. West Indies lead the series 1-0 after that opening win in Providence. The second match is at the same venue, before the action shifts to Bridgetown for the final two fixtures. Hetmyer's inclusion gives the team an extra batting option, which could be key as they try to seal the series. Here's the West Indies squad for the first three ODIs against New Zealand: - Shai Hope (captain, wicketkeeper) - Ackeem Auguste - John Campbell - Keacy Carty - Roston Chase - Matthew Forde - Shimron Hetmyer - Amir Jangoo - Alzarri Joseph - Shamar Joseph - Vitel Lawes - Gudakesh Motie - Keemo Paul - Sherfane Rutherford - Jayden Seales ### What's Next for West Indies Cricket? With Hetmyer back in the mix, West Indies have a chance to build momentum. His ability to change the game in the death overs could be the difference in tight matches. Meanwhile, Greaves' recovery will be closely watched, especially with the Pakistan Tests on the horizon. If he's not ready, the selectors will have some tough decisions to make. For now, all eyes are on the second ODI. Can Hetmyer make an immediate impact? Will West Indies extend their series lead? We'll find out soon enough.