Ravichandran Ashwin voiced strong disappointment over West Indies leaving out retired stars Nicholas Pooran and Sunil Narine from their T20 World Cup 2026 squad. The former Indian spinner feels the Caribbean board missed a golden chance by not convincing the duo to return for the big tournament.

Ashwin Calls for Better Planning by West Indies

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ravichandran Ashwin didn’t hold back. “I am very disappointed that the West Indies did not pick Nicholas Pooran and Sunil Narine in their squad for this World Cup,” he said. Ashwin urged the West Indies board to sit down with the players and bring them back. “You need to sit across the table from them, talk to them, and bring them to the World Cup. How can you leave Nicholas Pooran and Sunil Narine out and go into a World Cup without them?”

Ashwin made it clear he’s a huge fan of West Indies cricket. He praised their talent but pointed out flaws in planning. “I am a big fan of the West Indies. They have a lot of ability. But the way they plan and sometimes even the infrastructure leaves me with my mouth open,” he added. The spinner believes West Indies have huge potential but need to rethink their approach for World Cups.

Pooran and Narine Shine in Leagues, Not Internationals

Sunil Narine retired from international cricket back in 2023 but remains a T20 league superstar. Nicholas Pooran followed suit in 2025, yet both continue to dominate franchise cricket around the world. Their absence is a big blow for West Indies, who rely on explosive batting and mystery spin to compete with the best.

Ashwin’s comments highlight a bigger issue. West Indies have struggled since their Super Eight exit in the 2024 T20 World Cup. In 43 matches since then, they’ve won just 14 and lost 27, with two no results. Despite this poor run, they showed promise with skipper Shai Hope evolving into a solid T20 batter.

Tough Group C Challenge Awaits West Indies

West Indies find themselves in Group C alongside defending champions India, Nepal, Scotland, and newcomers Italy. Their campaign kicks off against Scotland on February 7 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Shai Hope will lead a side that has the talent to surprise but needs better execution.

The two-time T20 World Cup winners have shown flashes of their old magic. Their explosive hitting and fighting spirit can still unsettle top teams. However, without Pooran and Narine, they lack the X-factor that defined their golden era. Ashwin’s straight talk serves as a wake-up call for West Indies cricket ahead of this crucial tournament.

Fans will watch closely to see if Shai Hope’s team can rise to the occasion. With matches against strong India and tricky Nepal looming, every point will count in the group stage. Ashwin’s plea underscores the high stakes - West Indies need their best players to compete for glory.