Australia's depth will be tested in this month's ODI tri-series and possibly next month's tour of Sri Lanka, with David Warner suffering a broken finger.
Cricket Australia (CA) expect Warner will be ready to bat in two to six weeks, although medicos are still consulting specialists as to whether surgery is required.
Warner was initially upbeat he could feature in the tri-series final, in Barbados on June 26, but was later ruled out of the tournament.
Skipper Steve Smith wants his form batsman to focus on being fit for July 26, when a three-Test series starts in Sri Lanka.
"The most important thing from my aspect is that he's right for the Test series," Smith said.
"The medical staff and Davey are confident he'll be right for that first Test match.
"It's always tough missing players like Davey, particularly at the moment - he's in the form of his life and batting beautifully.
"So obviously it's going to be a big loss for us."
If Warner only has to immobilise the intra-articular fracture of his left index finger then it's likely selectors won't have to find a new opening partner for Joe Burns in Pallekele.
Usman Khawaja is set to open alongside Aaron Finch in Australia's clash with West Indies, which starts at 3am (AEST) on Tuesday.
Australia are not expected to summon extra cover to the Caribbean.
Batsmen Glenn Maxwell and Travis Head are part of the touring party and both were left out of the XI that defeated South Africa by 36 runs in St Kitts.
Warner continued his career-best form in that game, posting his first ODI ton outside Australia to be named man of the match.
He hurt his finger while fielding during the Proteas' run-chase and was hopeful he had avoided serious injury, only for scans to show otherwise.
"It's obviously disappointing to be sidelined given the form I've been in and given the important stage the tri-series is at, but it's always important to look at the positives," Warner said.
"This downtime, however long or short it is, will give me the chance to freshen up and spend quality time with my family after an intense period of action."
Warner has been playing almost non-stop cricket since the home summer, with trips to New Zealand and South Africa followed by the World Twenty20 and Indian Premier League.
The 29-year-old has impressed plenty with his maturity and consistent run-scoring over the past year.
"It's doubly disappointing to have David Warner sidelined," stand-in coach Justin Langer said of the reigning Allan Border medallist.
"Because of his outstanding form plus his attitude and professionalism around the group, which has been a joy to work with.
"But we've spoken from day one of this tour about every single person in the squad contributing to our success."
Warner hasn't missed a game through injury since a bouncer from Steve Finn broke his left thumb last September.
