NEWS: West Indies without a number of first-choice players for T20 series against the Proteas

Brandon King has been appointed as captain of the side in the absence of regular skipper Rovman Powell who remains at the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Rajasthan Royals after they qualified for the playoffs.

Powell is one of a group of players who will miss the three matches on May 23, 25 and 26 due to either still being involved in the IPL or being rested following the franchise tournament.

Others not considered for the upcoming series but will be part of the T20 World Cup squad include Andre Russell and Sherfane Rutherford (both Kolkata Knight Riders), Shimron Hetmyer (Rajasthan Royals) and Alzarri Joseph (Royal Challengers Bengaluru).

Nicholas Pooran and Shai Hope, who featured for Lucknow Super Giants and Delhi Capitals respectively, are rested and will link up with squad for the global tournament.

The series against South Africa could see a T20I debut for fast bowler Shamar Joseph who has been included in the World Cup squad.

West Indies selector Desmond Haynes said: “These are among the last competitive T20 International matches before the start of the World Cup.

“Players have the opportunity to fine-tune their skills and ensure they are as prepared as they can be for the World Cup, whether they are in the final squad or reserve pool.”

Head coach Daren Sammy added: “We have not played together as a team since the Australia series, but we just completed a very high-intensity training camp in Antigua.

“Now we have the chance to integrate some of our players returning from the IPL and build some momentum as a group going into the World Cup.”

The Windies are co-hosts of the global tournament, alongside USA, and kick off their campaign against Papua New Guinea on June 1.