Fresh faces and proven stars set stage for Caribbean T20 clash
ST JOHN’S, Antigua — Cricket West Indies has assembled a bold 15-player squad for a three-match Women’s T20 International series against Sri Lanka, signaling an aggressive push toward the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. The series will run from February 28 to March 3 at the National Cricket Stadium, offering a critical testing ground ahead of the global tournament in the United Kingdom this summer.
Captain Hayley Matthews will lead a squad blending established match-winners with emerging talent as the Caribbean side seeks to sharpen its T20 edge.
Teenage breakthrough signals new era
The headline inclusion is 17-year-old Barbadian batter Eboni Brathwaite, who earns her first senior call-up after a fearless display in the regional T20 Blaze tournament. Her aggressive approach at the top of the order, reflected in a strike rate of 146, convinced selectors she is ready for the international stage.
She joins newcomers Zaida James and Mandy Mangru, who transition into the T20 squad following the ODI series against the same opponent. Their inclusion comes as part of a reshuffle that also opens the door for Brathwaite to replace Realeanna Grimmond.
Confidence builds within the camp
Head coach Shane Deitz framed the series as a cornerstone of the team’s World Cup preparation, emphasizing both continuity and evolution within the squad.
“With this being a World Cup year, this T20 series provides valuable preparation with that tournament firmly in mind,” Deitz said, noting the team’s strong performances in recent years. “The group is excited about what lies ahead.”
The coach also highlighted the return of several players in strong form from the Women’s Premier League, expecting their experience in high-pressure franchise cricket to bolster the team’s firepower.
Youthful energy meets proven experience
Emerging all-rounder Jahzara Claxton remains a player to watch after an impressive debut season, with Deitz describing her skill set as ideally suited to the T20 format. The squad also features seasoned performers such as Deandra Dottin and Stafanie Taylor, ensuring a balance of experience and youthful ambition.
The matchup promises to be tightly contested. Sri Lanka currently sits seventh in the ICC Women’s T20 rankings, just behind sixth-ranked West Indies, making the series a meaningful indicator of both teams’ readiness for the World Cup.
Fans in Grenada are being encouraged to fill the stadium, with free admission offered for all matches. Supporters across the Caribbean will also be able to follow the action live via streaming platforms, as the team seeks to generate momentum and reconnect with its passionate base.
Squad and schedule
Matthews will captain the side with Chinelle Henry serving as vice-captain, alongside a roster that includes Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Afy Fletcher, Qiana Joseph, Karishma Ramharack, and others forming a versatile unit.
All three matches will be played at the National Cricket Stadium in St George’s:
- 1st T20I: Saturday, February 28 — 1:00 PM AST
- 2nd T20I: Sunday, March 1 — 1:00 PM AST
- 3rd T20I: Tuesday, March 3 — 1:00 PM AST
For West Indies Women, the series represents more than a bilateral contest — it is an early proving ground for a team determined to peak when the world stage beckons.
