Cricket West Indies has announced a strategically selected 15-player roster for the upcoming Women’s T20 International series against Sri Lanka, scheduled from February 28 to March 3 at Grenada’s National Cricket Stadium. This three-match confrontation serves as critical preparation ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in the United Kingdom.
Captain Hayley Matthews will lead a squad blending veteran experience with emerging talent. The most notable selection is 17-year-old Barbadian prodigy Eboni Brathwaite, who receives her first senior call-up following an explosive performance in the regional T20 Blaze tournament where she maintained a remarkable strike rate of 146.
The selection panel has introduced fresh dynamics with Zaida James and Mandy Mangru joining the T20 lineup, replacing Ashmini Munisar and Shunelle Sawh from the recent ODI series against Sri Lanka. Brathwaite takes the spot of Realeanna Grimmond, signaling the team’s commitment to injecting new energy.
Head Coach Shane Deitz emphasized the series’ significance within the broader World Cup context: “This T20 series provides invaluable preparation with the global tournament firmly in mind. Our players have maintained strong T20 performances since our last campaign, and the group is energized about the journey ahead.”
The squad benefits from additional firepower with several players returning in excellent form from the Women’s Premier League. Deitz specifically highlighted Brathwaite’s power-hitting capabilities and the continued development of all-rounder Jahzara Claxton, whose skill set aligns perfectly with T20 demands.
The series presents a compelling competitive dynamic with West Indies ranked sixth and Sri Lanka seventh in ICC Women’s T20 rankings. Cricket authorities have made admission free for all matches, encouraging Grenadian fans to create an electrifying home atmosphere.
Regional supporters can follow the action live through Windies Cricket YouTube channel and Disney+ platforms, ensuring widespread accessibility for this important preparatory series.
