Former Proteas wicketkeeper-batsman Nic Pothas has been named the West Indies’ interim head coach for the tour of Bangladesh later this year.

Pothas was Sri Lanka’s interim head coach for half of 2017, and was named the West Indies’ fielding coach earlier this year.

‘Having Nic lead the team at this juncture is important for continuity, and we look forward to strong and positive performances from the squad under his leadership,” said director of cricket Jimmy Adams.

The 45-year-old Pothas played three ODIs for South Africa in 2000 – and represented Greece in the European Championship Division Two Twenty20 in 2012.

‘It is an honour to be asked to be the head coach of the West Indies cricket team for the immediate future. The Bangladesh series will be a tough challenge that we look forward to embracing,’ he added.

Bangladesh and the West Indies will meet for two Tests, three ODIs and three T20Is from 22 November to 22 December.

The fit-again Shakib Al Hasan has been named in the squad for the first Test, while batsman Soumya Sarkar has also been recalled.

‘Shakib has no physical problems currently, but he is short of match fitness. But since he is a senior player, we think that he is ready,’ said chief selector Minhajul Abedin.

‘Soumya has done well. Our openers have failed in Tests, so we want to give him a chance. Soumya plays fast bowling quite well.’