ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled a dynamic 15-member squad to face Sri Lanka in a three-match Women’s T20 International Series from February 28 to March 3 at the National Cricket Stadium in St George’s, Grenada.
The contest promises high-octane action as the Caribbean side ramps up preparations for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to bowl off in the United Kingdom from June 12 to July 5
The squad will be led by captain Hayley Matthews as the team continues to build momentum in the shortest format.
Among the exciting selections is 17-year-old Barbadian Eboni Brathwaite, who earns her maiden call-up to the Senior level following a strong showing during the recently concluded regional T20 Blaze tournament. The aggressive top-order batter impressed the selectors with her positive strokeplay, recording a strike rate of 146 throughout the competition.
Also making their way into the T20 squad following the conclusion of the ODI series against the same opponent, are Zaida James and Mandy Mangru, replacing Ashmini Munisar and Shunelle Sawh, with Brathwaite stepping in for Realeanna Grimmond.
Head Coach, Shane Deitz, spoke on the squad’s preparation for the series, especially in the context of the push towards the global tournament:
“With this being a World Cup year, this T20 series provides valuable preparation with that tournament firmly in mind. We had a strong campaign two years ago and have continued to play quality T20 cricket since then, so the group is excited about what lies ahead.”
Several players return in strong form from the Women’s Premier League (WPL), further strengthening the squad’s firepower.
“Three of our players have returned from the WPL in good form, and we’re expecting meaningful contributions from them”,
said Deitz.
“Some of our younger players will also have opportunities to showcase their skills in the T20 format, including Eboni Brathwaite from Barbados on her first tour with the senior team. She demonstrated plenty of power hitting in regional and Under-19 cricket, and we’re eager to see her bring that same intent and freedom to this series.”
Deitz also highlighted the continued development of fast-rising all-rounder Jahzara Claxton, who impressed on debut last year.
“Last year’s debutant, Jahzara Claxton, also possesses a skill set well suited to T20 cricket, and this will be another important opportunity for her to make an impact. Overall, this series is an important step in our World Cup build-up, and we’re ready to play an exciting brand of cricket for the fans here in Grenada”
, the Head Coach added.
This series is expected to provide a good gauge of the regional side’s current positioning, with Sri Lanka being ranked seventh in ICC Women’s T20 cricket and West Indies just ahead in sixth, the series is expected to be fiercely competitive.
Fans across Grenada are urged to come out in their numbers, with admission to all matches free of charge. Supporters are invited to pack the National Cricket Stadium and create a vibrant home atmosphere as the West Indies Women continue their journey toward the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
Supporters throughout the region can follow each match of the thrilling series live on Windies Cricket YouTube channel and Disney+.
West Indies Women T20 Squad:
Hayley Matthews (captain)
Chinelle Henry (vice captain)
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 Coach: Ryan Austin
Assistant Coach: Damien Wright
Assistant Coach: 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 will be played at the National Cricket Stadium)
1st T20I – Saturday, February 28 – 1PM AST
2nd T20I – Sunday, March 1 – 1PM AST
3rd T20I – Tuesday, March 3 – 1PM AST
