The stage is set for an intriguing clash in the Caribbean as West Indies Women host Sri Lanka Women in the 1st ODI of their three-match series at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada.
With both teams eyeing crucial ICC Women’s Championship points, this match serves as a vital barometer for their 50-over form heading into a busy 2026 calendar.
West Indies Women: The return of the stars
The big news for the Maroon Warriors is the return of their captain, Hayley Matthews, who is back after a lengthy shoulder injury. The squad is bolstered by the presence of the legendary Deandra Dottin and Stafanie Taylor, giving them a massive edge in experience. Under Head Coach Shane Deitz, the Windies are seeking “revenge” after losing their previous ODI series to Sri Lanka in 2024.
Key player: Matthews. Her all-round ability to dominate with the bat and provide crucial breakthroughs with her off-spin makes her the undisputed MVP.
Sri Lanka Women: The giant killers
Ranked 6th in ODIs (above West Indies at 9th), Sri Lanka arrives with momentum and a settled core. Led by the powerhouse Chamari Athapaththu, the visitors rely heavily on her explosive starts. Their bowling attack is spin-heavy and disciplined, which could trouble the Windies’ middle order if they fail to rotate strike.
Key player: Kavisha Dilhari. She has evolved into a world-class all-rounder. Her ability to finish games with the bat and her handy off-breaks will be vital in Caribbean conditions.
West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women, 1st ODI: Match Details
- Date and Time: February 20; 07:30 pm IST/ 02:00 pm GMT/ 10:00 am Local
- Venue: National Cricket Stadium, St Georges, Grenada
National Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The surface at St. George’s is traditionally known for being balanced but slightly leaning toward the bowlers as the game progresses. Historically, the pitch offers a good bounce early on, allowing batters to play their shots. While the new ball might zip around under the morning humidity, the track is expected to slow down significantly. Spinners from both sides—like Afy Fletcher and Inoka Ranaweera—will likely dictate the middle overs. Teams winning the toss often prefer to bowl first. The early morning moisture can assist seamers, and chasing has generally been more successful at this venue in limited-overs formats.
Squads
West Indies: Hayley Matthews (c), Chinelle Henry (vc), Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Jahzara Claxton, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Jannillea Glasgow, Realeanna Grimmond, Shawnisha Hector, Qiana Joseph, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Shunelle Sawh, Stafanie Taylor
Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunaratne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshi De Silva, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Dewmi Vihanga, Rashmika Sewwandi, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Kumari, Nimasha Madushani, Malki Madara, Kawya Kavindi
West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women, Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- West Indies Women wins the toss and bowls first
- Sri Lanka Women’s powerplay score: 40-50
- Sri Lanka Women’s total score: 200-220
Case 2:
- Sri Lanka Women wins the toss and bowls first
- West Indies Women’s powerplay score: 50-60
- West Indies Women’s total score: 220-250
Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
