ST. JOHN’S, Antigua– Cricket West Indies (CWI) has officially unveiled a 15-player squad for the much-anticipated white-ball series against South Africa Women, set to unfold at the historic 3Ws Oval in Barbados from June 11–23.
The home series comprises three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and three T20 Internationals (T20Is), and marks a critical opportunity for the West Indies Women to reset after a winless tour of England.
Rebuilding on familiar ground
Returning from a challenging tour in England where they fell short in all six matches across formats, the Maroon Warriors are now poised to regroup and reignite their form under the Caribbean sun. Though the tour ended in defeat, it was not without silver linings: St. Kitts’ trailblazer Jahzara Claxton made her international debut, while Guyana’s Realeanna Grimmond announced herself with a composed half-century on ODI debut.
Captain Hayley Matthews, who was the standout performer with 177 runs and three wickets in the T20I leg of the England series, will once again lead the side. She was also named Player of the Series, underscoring her pivotal role as both leader and match-winner.
Squad update: One change, renewed energy
The squad sees a single change from the England tour. Experienced all-rounder Chinelle Henry returns in place of Cherry-Ann Fraser, adding balance and veteran grit to a young squad hungry to learn and compete. The remainder of the team remains largely youthful, with five players aged 21 or younger — a deliberate strategy aimed at building for the future.
Miles Bascombe, CWI Director of Cricket, expressed strong belief in the team’s potential:
“After a challenging tour, this home series offers the perfect opportunity for the team to regain their footing and re-establish their confidence playing in familiar conditions and in front of West Indian fans. We believe in this group’s talent and resilience.”
Deitz: ‘A great opportunity to put on a show’
Head Coach Shane Deitz remained upbeat, noting the growth of the team despite recent setbacks:
“Obviously, England’s results didn’t go how we wanted, but it was a great learning opportunity… We had five players aged 21 and under in our last ODI against England, so it was great to see a young team go out there and mix it up with one of the best teams in the world.”
Deitz emphasized the dual goals of development and performance:
“All those younger players learned some valuable lessons which we hope they will bring into this series to contribute more for the team and put in match-winning performances.”
He also highlighted the emotional and symbolic importance of Matthews returning to play in her hometown:
“It’s great that Hayley is now available for this series — her home series in her hometown — and she’ll be really excited to put on a great show in front of her family, friends, and supporters.”
A series with significance
The series is more than a cricket contest; it’s a proving ground. The South Africa Women’s team, ranked 5th in both ODIs and T20Is, will present a formidable challenge to a West Indies side ranked 9th in ODIs and 5th in T20s. Yet the energy of home support and the familiarity of conditions could be the boost the Maroon Warriors need.
The second T20I on Sunday, June 22, will also coincide with the prestigious CWI and WIPA Awards, celebrating excellence in both men’s and women’s Caribbean cricket.
“This is going to be a wonderful series,” said Deitz. “It’s a great opportunity for our girls to test their skills… We can’t wait to hear and feel the support when we go out to play on Wednesday.”
West Indies Women’s Squad vs South Africa: Hayley Matthews (Captain), Shemaine Campbelle (Vice-Captain), Aaliyah Alleyne, Jahzara Claxton, Afy Fletcher, Shakiba Gajnabi, Jannillea Glasgow, Realeanna Grimmond, Chinelle Henry, Zaida James, Qiana Joseph, Mandy Mangru, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Stafanie Taylor
Team Management: Head Coach: Shane Deitz, Team Manager: Sheena Gooding, Assistant Coaches: Ryan Austin, Damien Wright, Analyst: Gary Belle, Physiotherapist: Angelica Holder, S&C Coach: Hector Martinez Charles, Performance Coach: Dr. Nadine Sammy, Media Officer: Nicholas Maitland.
Match Schedule (3Ws Oval, Barbados)
ODIs
- 1st ODI: Wednesday, 11 June – 10:00 AM
- 2nd ODI: Saturday, 14 June – 10:00 AM
- 3rd ODI: Tuesday, 17 June – 10:00 AM
T20Is
- 1st T20I: Friday, 20 June – 2:00 PM
- 2nd T20I: Sunday, 22 June – 10:00 AM (CWI/WIPA Awards Day)
- 3rd T20I: Monday, 23 June – 2:00 PM
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