The stage is set for an exciting clash in the Caribbean West Indian women the owner of the house Sri Lanka Women in the 1st ODI of the three-match series at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada.
With both teams eyeing crucial points in the ICC Women’s Championship, the encounter serves as an important barometer for their 50-over presence in the 2026 calendar.
West Indies Women: The Return of the Stars
The big news for the Maroon Warriors is the return of their captain. Hayley Matthewsreturning from a lengthy shoulder injury. The team is strengthened by the presence of a legendary player Deandra Dottin and Stephanie Taylorgiving them a huge advantage in experience. Under coach Shane Deitz, Windies are looking for “revenge” after losing their previous ODI series to Sri Lanka in 2024.
The main player: Matthew. His all-round ability to dominate with the bat and provide crucial breakthroughs with off-spin makes him the undisputed MVP.
Sri Lankan Women: Giant Killers
Ranked 6th in ODIs (above West Indies at 9th), Sri Lanka come with momentum and a stable core. It is controlled by the energy center Chamari Atapathuthe visitors rely heavily on his explosive starts. Their bowling attack needs to spin and is disciplined, which can trouble the Windies’ middle order if they fail to rotate the batting.
The main player: Kavisha Dilhari. He became a world-class all-rounder. His ability to finish games with the bat and his comfortable breaks will be vital in Caribbean conditions.
West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women, 1st ODI: Match Details
- Date and Time: February 20; 19:30 IST/ 14:00 GMT/ 10:00 Local
- Location: National Cricket Stadium, St Georges, Grenada
National Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The surface at St George’s is traditionally known for being level, but as the game progresses it tilts slightly towards the bowlers. Historically, the pitch has offered good bounce, allowing batsmen to play their shots. The track is expected to slow down significantly, although the new ball can spin under the morning humidity. Spinners on both sides – like Affy Fletcher and Inoka Ranaweera– will likely dictate the middles. Teams that win the toss often prefer to bowl first. Early morning humidity can help the seamers and chasing in the limited-overs format has generally been more successful in this venue.
Also READ: A star-studded return as BCCI revamps India Women’s squad for ODI series with Australia
Groups
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, Karishmaa Joseph, Ashmini Munisar, Karishmaa Tawhie, Stawharie
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 Madvin Kaushani, Nimasha Madvin Kaushani,
West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women, Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- West Indies Women win the toss first
- Sri Lanka Women power play score: 40-50
- Sri Lanka Women’s total score: 200-220
Case 2:
- Sri Lanka Women win the toss first
- West Indies Women power play score: 50-60
- West Indies Women’s Total Score: 220-250
Match result: The first bowling team to win the competition
Also READ: Sri Lanka has named a strong Women’s ODI squad for the West Indies tour
This article was originally published here WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
