West Indies Announce Squad for ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026

Squad Announcement

On Thursday, Cricket West Indies (CWI) revealed their team for the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026. The squad will be captained by all-rounder Hayley Matthews, who aims to lead the West Indies to their first world title since their victory in 2016, which remains their only championship in this tournament.

Match Schedule

The West Indies women's team will kick off their Women's T20 World Cup 2026 journey against New Zealand on June 13 at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. Their subsequent matches include:

1. Scotland on June 18 at Headingley, Leeds.

2. Sri Lanka on June 21 at the Bristol County Ground.

3. A significant match against hosts England at Lord's, London, on June 24.

4. They will wrap up the group stage against Ireland on June 27 at the Bristol County Ground.

Squad Analysis

Matthews will be supported by seasoned players like Deandra Dottin and Stafanie Taylor, who bring extensive all-round experience to the team. Expected to take key positions in the top order are Matthews and Qiana Joseph, while Dottin, Taylor, Chinelle Henry, and Jahzara Claxton will bolster the middle order. Shemaine Campbelle is set to handle wicketkeeping duties.

The squad has a strong spin presence with Ashmini Munisar, Afy Fletcher, Mandy Mangru, Karishma Ramharack, Matthews, and Zaida James, all capable of bowling spin. Additionally, the pace attack will be strengthened by Chinelle Henry, Aaliyah Alleyne, Jannillea Glasgow, Jahzara Claxton, Shawnisha Hector, and Deandra Dottin.

Strategy and Preparation

Head Coach Shane Deitz emphasized that the squad selection aligns with a strategic approach tailored for the challenges of international cricket in England. He noted the importance of strong powerplay batting and consistent scoring during the middle overs for success.

"Our analysis indicates that scoring positively in the powerplay, especially surpassing the 45-run mark, significantly enhances our chances of controlling matches. Conversely, we must limit boundaries during the powerplay and throughout the innings," he stated.

Deitz highlighted the need for flexibility in the batting order, with players adept at handling both pace and spin, and emphasized the importance of maintaining an aggressive intent regardless of wickets lost.

Miles Bascombe, Director of Cricket, shared that the team's preparation program was meticulously crafted to help players acclimatize to English conditions while fostering consistency and momentum ahead of the World Cup.

"The camp in Wales was designed to replicate the conditions expected during the tournament, allowing players to refine their technical skills and tactical understanding. Building team cohesion and confidence was equally vital," Bascombe explained.

"The tri-nation series in Ireland will provide essential competitive exposure against strong international teams right before the tournament, ensuring players are well-prepared and clear on their roles as they enter the World Cup," he added.

West Indies Squad

The squad includes: Hayley Matthews (c), Chinelle Henry, Deandra Dottin, Stafanie Taylor, Afy Fletcher, Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Jannillea Glasgow, Jahzara Claxton, Qiana Joseph, Zaida James, Mandy Mangru, Shawnisha Hector.