After an unprecedented eleven-year non-stop career, West Indies women’s cricket captain Hayley Matthews has emerged from a forced hiatus with revitalized energy and sharpened focus. The Barbadian all-rounder, who debuted as a teenager in 2014, underwent shoulder surgery last summer following an injury sustained during England’s tour, granting her the first substantial break of her professional life.
Matthews described the recovery period as “a bit different but really enjoyable” time spent with loved ones, noting it provided valuable perspective on her career achievements while fueling her hunger for future challenges. Her rehabilitation culminated in a return to competition through India’s Women’s Premier League, where she joins compatriots Deandra Dottin and Chinelle Henry.
While Matthews recuperated, her teammates underwent an intensive eight-week High-Performance camp in Antigua from October to December. The captain praised their dedication to skill development and fitness, emphasizing the camp’s role in strengthening team culture and dynamics ahead of a demanding schedule.
The West Indies face a formidable 2026 itinerary featuring series against Sri Lanka, Australia, Ireland, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe across formats, with the T20 World Cup in England as the centerpiece. Matthews, whose match-winning performance secured the 2016 T20 World Cup title, believes her squad has evolved significantly since their semi-final finish in the last tournament.
A historic milestone awaits the team with their first Test match since 2004, facing Australia exactly fifty years after their inaugural series. Matthews expressed particular excitement about this opportunity, noting it will be the first Test experience for every squad member and represents profound honor and growth potential.
The captain also highlighted the importance of the new ICC Women’s Championship cycle, targeting crucial points against teams like Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, and Ireland. Now 27 and refreshed by her break, Matthews returns with clarified perspective and determination to lead West Indies women’s cricket into its next successful chapter.