The Saint Lucia women’s cricket team is poised for a dramatic turnaround as they enter the 2026 Windward Islands Cricket Board Women’s Tournament in St Vincent & the Grenadines this weekend. Following a disappointing last-place finish in the previous competition despite an undefeated 2024 campaign, the squad undergoes significant restructuring under new leadership.
Captaincy duties fall to 21-year-old Zaida James, one of three West Indies representatives anchoring the team, with fellow 21-year-old Namiah Marcellin serving as vice-captain. The roster features a notable youth movement with only four players exceeding 26 years of age, including 35-year-old veteran wicketkeeper-batter Ashlene Edward who returns to provide experience alongside West Indies Under-19 bowler Selena Ross and regional standout Nerissa Crafton.
The 14-member squad introduces two uncapped teenage bowlers, Ammie Antoine and Gillia Mc Laurent, while welcoming back Natalia Philip, Elisha James, and newcomer Krishna Joseph. The technical staff is helmed by former West Indies player Philippa Thomas-Eudovic as head coach, assisted by Eldridge Charles, with former Windward Islands women’s player Yasmine St Ange managing team operations.
Despite the inclusion of international-caliber players, concerns persist regarding match fitness disparities. The 2025 cricket season witnessed numerous domestic tournaments for male players across T10 to two-day formats, while female cricketers faced a severe shortage of competitive opportunities, often forcing them to participate in men’s competitions to maintain playing readiness.
The tournament format features T20 matches running from January 4-9 at Kingstown’s Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. Saint Lucia’s schedule commences with a January 4 opener against hosts St Vincent & the Grenadines, followed by matches against Grenada (January 5) and Dominica (January 7), culminating in finals placement matches on January 9.