Injury Blow for West Indies: Matthew Forde Out of Pakistan ODIs

West Indies fast bowler Matthew Forde will miss the forthcoming three-match One Day International series against Pakistan after dislocating his left shoulder during a training session, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced. His place in the squad has been taken by Johann Layne, an uncapped all-rounder.

Layne, who has impressed in previous engagements with West Indies A against South Africa A, bolsters the Caribbean team's seam bowling attack. West Indies' coach, Daren Sammy, regards the series as a pivotal point for the team's ambitions to secure a spot in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup scheduled for 2027.

Sammy emphasized the importance of the matches, stating that facing higher-ranked Pakistan offers a critical opportunity to gain valuable ranking points imperative for their long-term goal of automatic qualification. The series opener kicks off in Trinidad this Friday, marking the start of a competitive challenge.