Joseph out injured for India Test series

AHMEDABAD, India (CMC):

WEST INDIES fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been ruled out of the upcoming two-Test series against India due to the recurrence of a lower-back injury.

The injury concern arose after Joseph reported discomfort, prompting medical scans.

The results confirmed a degeneration of a lower-back stress fracture that had previously been considered resolved.

To fill the void left by the experienced Joseph, the selectors have turned to pace-bowling all-rounder Jediah Blades.

While uncapped at the Test level, Blades has represented the West Indies in both One-Day and T20 Internationals and will join the squad following the ongoing series against Nepal.

In a further twist, veteran all-rounder Jason Holder was approached to replace Joseph but declined the call-up. Holder cited a preplanned medical procedure as the reason for his unavailability.

The absence of both Joseph and Holder leaves the West Indies’ pace attack significantly depleted as they prepare to face a formidable Indian batting line-up.