As West Indies prepare to face Australia in the opening Test of the series at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Wednesday, wicketkeeper-batter Shai Hope has expressed pride and satisfaction over his return to the Test fold, marking his first appearance in the longest format since 2021.
Hope, who will bat at No.6 and don the gloves, reflected on the emotional and symbolic significance of wearing the West Indies crest once again. “Representing West Indies always gives me a lot of joy and pride,” Hope stated. “That’s the main focus—being able to represent the region and have a meaningful impact on the game, with the hope of inspiring the next generation.”
While not aggressively chasing a return to the Test side, the 30-year-old emphasized that the opportunity to play red-ball cricket again was something he would always welcome. “I’m happy to be back,” he said. “It’s not something I would say I was desperate for, but if the opportunity came, I would always be willing to take it.”
Hope, who has been a regular in West Indies’ limited-overs squads, spoke candidly about the demands of playing across all formats. He acknowledged the challenges elite players face in maintaining form and fitness throughout the year but insisted he is prepared for the task. “The reality is the most elite players don’t play every match in all three formats throughout the year. There’s rest involved, there’s give and take,” he noted. “But I pride myself on being fit and ready for whatever is thrown at me. Whether I play all three formats for the next two, three, five, or even ten years, I want to make sure I do it to the best of my ability.”
On his approach to selection and performance, Hope stressed his focus remains on commitment over outcomes. “If I decide to come back and play Test cricket, my focus is to give it my all. Whether or not success follows, the decision to keep or drop me rests with the selectors. But my job is to stay committed and perform.”
Hope’s return adds both experience and stability to a West Indies team undergoing transition. The squad also includes debutant Brandon King and returning opener John Campbell, with Roston Chase set to lead the side. The pace attack will feature Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, and Jayden Seales, supported by spinner Jomel Warrican and bowling all-rounder Justin Greaves.
West Indies Playing XI for 1st Test vs Australia:
Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Brandon King, Roston Chase (capt), Shai Hope (wk), Justin Greaves, Jomel Warrican, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales.