ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) — Hard-hitting batsman Shimron Hetmyer will make a return to the West Indies’ One-Day International (ODI) team after almost a year, having been included in the squad to face England at home.

The 27-year-old was the only change announced by Cricket West Indies in a 15-member squad that toured Sri Lanka, to face England in three ODIs beginning here on Thursday.

Hetmyer, who last played an ODI for the West Indies in December 2023 against the same opponents, replaces opener Alick Athanaze.

West Indies’ white-ball Head Coach Daren Sammy said he was eagerly looking forward to the upcoming series against their arch-rivals.

He said he expected the regional side to give a good showing of themselves playing at home.

“Playing against England always provides a new challenge and reignites a rivalry that the players and the people of the Caribbean are eager for,” Sammy said. “Somehow, we, West Indies, always find a way to raise our game when we face England.

“This rivalry goes back for decades, and after defeating them last year at home for the first time in a long time in an ODI series, we’re ready to face the challenge of a strong England squad again.

“It’s always special to play at home, where the local support brings energy and passion to every match. With our sights set on qualifying for the ICC Men’s World Cup in 2027, we’ve selected a balanced squad that will no doubt push and compete with one of the best teams in the world.”