West Indies Replace Injured Matthew Forde With Johann Layne Ahead Pakistan ODI Series

West Indies fast bowler Matthew Forde has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match One Day International series against Pakistan due to a dislocated left shoulder sustained during a training session. Johann Layne, an uncapped 21-year-old all-rounder who has shown promise in previous matches for West Indies A against South Africa A, has been called up as his replacement. The series, starting in Trinidad, is seen as a crucial opportunity for West Indies to gain valuable ranking points in their pursuit of automatic qualification for the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. West Indies coach Daren Sammy emphasized the importance of facing higher-ranked opponents like Pakistan to build team cohesion and maintain a winning mentality for long-term success. The West Indies squad is also without pace spearhead Alzarri Joseph, who is being rested for the series. The series opener is scheduled for August 8, with subsequent matches on August 10 and 12.