ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Confidence and continuity will guide the West Indies Women as they prepare for one of their sternest examinations of the year.
Cricket West Indies has confirmed an unchanged squad for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against the formidable Australia women’s national cricket team, with the contests scheduled for March 19-23 at the iconic Arnos Vale Cricket Ground in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
The decision to retain the same group underscores the selectors’ faith in a squad blending proven experience with emerging promise, as the Maroon Warriors prepare to challenge the world’s top-ranked side on Caribbean soil.
A crucial step toward the World Cup
The highly anticipated series arrives at a pivotal moment in the team’s calendar, serving as an important stage of preparation for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup later this year in the United Kingdom.
Facing Australia, the dominant force in the women’s game, offers the Caribbean side an ideal measuring stick as they refine their approach and assess their readiness for the global tournament.
For the West Indies, the opportunity to test themselves against the sport’s benchmark promises both challenge and insight.
Momentum after Sri Lanka battle
The Maroon Warriors enter the series fresh from a competitive home campaign against the Sri Lanka women’s national cricket team.
Sri Lanka claimed the three-match ODI series 2-1, but the hosts finished strongly in the final encounter thanks to a superb century from captain Hayley Matthews, whose match-winning innings secured a six-wicket victory and ensured the West Indies avoided a series sweep.
The performance injected renewed belief into the squad and provided valuable match experience ahead of the looming Australia challenge.
Experience meets youth
The selected squad reflects a balance between seasoned match-winners and promising young players eager to make their mark.
Veteran figures such as Stafanie Taylor and Deandra Dottin provide leadership and explosive ability, while Matthews continues to guide the side with both bat and captaincy.
Behind the stumps, Shemaine Campbelle is poised to reach a personal landmark, with the experienced wicketkeeper-batter expected to earn her 150th T20 International cap during the series.
Meanwhile, the youthful duo of 17-year-old Eboni Brathwaite and 19-year-old Jahzara Claxton inject fresh energy into the lineup as the West Indies seek to close the gap on the sport’s dominant powerhouse.
Coach welcomes the ultimate test
Head coach Shane Deitz believes the series offers a valuable opportunity to measure the team’s progress ahead of the World Cup.
“We’re really excited about the opportunity to play the number one ranked ODI and T20 team in the world. It’s just before the World Cup, so it’s a great opportunity to see where we are in our preparation. Playing against the best team in the world, we can see where our deficiencies are and where things are working well as we look forward to the tournament in June in England.”
Deitz also noted that the matchup provides a rare chance to evaluate how far the squad has evolved since its last competitive meeting with Australia.
“It’s going to be a very tough series, but the players are up for the challenge. We haven’t played them in a competitive match since October 2023, so it’ll be good to see the progression of the team since that last meeting, namely in how much we’ve improved in certain areas and where we still need to improve moving forward. Our players are ready to show their skills and demonstrate the talent in this West Indies group. It’s going to be a fantastic tour and entertaining for everyone.”
Caribbean fans set for free cricket festival
Supporters across the region will have the chance to experience the action live, with free entry to all matches at Arnos Vale. Fans can also follow the contests via streaming on Disney+ through ESPN.
Following the T20 series, both teams will travel to Warner Park in Saint Kitts and Nevis for a three-match One-Day International series.
West Indies Women T20 Squad vs Australia: Captain: Hayley Matthews, Vice-Captain: Chinelle Henry, Aaliyah Alleyne, Eboni Brathwaite, Shemaine Campbelle, Jahzara Claxton, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Jannillea Glasgow, Shawnisha Hector, Zaida James, Qiana Joseph, Mandy Mangru, Karishma Ramharack, Stafanie Taylor.
Team Management Unit: Head Coach: Shane Deitz, Team Manager: Sheena Gooding, Assistant Coaches: Ryan Austin, Damien Wright, Shane Dowrich, Physiotherapist: Ashley Stephens, Strength & Conditioning Coach: Hector Martinez Charles, Performance Coach: Dr. Nadine Sammy, Media & Content Officer: Nicholas Maitland.
Series Schedule: (All matches at Arnos Vale Cricket Ground – 6:30 PM start)
· 1st T20I: Thursday, March 19
· 2nd T20I: Saturday, March 21
· 3rd T20I: Monday, March 23
