West Indies Welcome Back Hetmyer and Paul as New Zealand Elect to Bowl

The third match of the five-match ODI series between the West Indies and New Zealand is underway at the Providence Stadium in Guyana, with New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner winning the toss and electing to bowl. The series is currently locked at 1-1, adding significant stakes to this encounter before the tour shifts to Bridgetown.

The West Indies have made notable changes to their lineup, bringing in local favorites Shimron Hetmyer and Keemo Paul for their return to international cricket. Hetmyer, who last featured in 50-over cricket for the West Indies in June 2025, joins Paul—who returns to the ODI side for the first time in three years—replacing Amir Jangoo and Matthew Forde. West Indies captain Shai Hope expressed his pleasure at having the two Guyana-raised players back in the squad for a match played on their home soil.

New Zealand has also adjusted their team, with all-rounder Nathan Smith coming into the XI to replace fast bowler Matthew Fisher. Captain Mitchell Santner noted that the pitch being used is the same one from the series opener. Spin has been the dominant force in the series thus far, with spinners claiming 22 wickets compared to just six for the fast bowlers, a trend that could play a decisive role in today's outcome.