The iconic North Sydney Oval is abuzz with anticipation as the West Indies women’s team prepares to face Australia in the upcoming Comms Bank T20 International series, starting on Sunday (Saturday night Caribbean Time). West Indies are cautiously confident as they look to upset the home side on their own turf.
The series holds added significance for the West Indies, being their first under the guidance of new head coach, Shane Deitz. His Australian background might offer the Caribbean side a unique perspective on the challenges and nuances of playing Down Under. Such insights could prove invaluable in the closely contested matches ahead.
West Indies captain, Hayley Matthews, exudes a quiet confidence, asserting: “We’re definitely ready for the challenge. Here in Australia, we feel we have nothing to lose and every opportunity to play some truly competitive cricket.” Their recent morale-boosting victory against New South Wales in a preparatory match further underscores their intent.
Shining a light on the team’s fresh talent, Matthews noted: “Our young players are eager. They’re here without the burden of expectations, ready to seize every chance they get in the middle to showcase their skills. Their enthusiasm might just translate into some stellar performances.”
Full Squad
Hayley Matthews (Captain)
Shemaine Campbelle (Vice Captain)
Aaliyah Alleyne
Shamilia Connell
Afy Fletcher
Cherry Ann Fraser
Shabika Gajnabi
Jannillea Glasgow
Chinelle Henry
Zaida James
Djenaba Joseph
Ashmini Munisar
Karishma Ramharack
Stafanie Taylor
Rashada Williams
Team Management
Shane Deitz (Head Coach)
Sheena Gooding (Team Manager)
Damien Wright (Assistant Coach)
Ryan Austin (Assistant Coach)
Tajay Grant (Physiotherapist)
Antonia Burton (Strength & Conditioning Coach)
Gary Belle (Performance Analyst)
Dr. Nadine Sammy (Mental Skills Coach)
Naasira Mohammed (Media Officer)
Match Schedule
1 October: 1st T20I at North Sydney Oval, Sydney – 12:20 pm local time (9:20 pm September 30 Eastern Caribbean, 8:20 pm Jamaica)
2 October: 2nd T20I at North Sydney Oval, Sydney (night) – 7:05 pm local time (4:05 am Eastern Caribbean, 3:05 am Jamaica)
5 October: 3rd T20I at Allan Border Field, Brisbane (night) – 6:05 pm local time (3:05 am Eastern Caribbean, 2:05 am Jamaica)
8 October: 1st ODI at Allan Border Field, Brisbane – 9:35 am local time (6:35 pm October 7 Eastern Caribbean, 5:35 pm Jamaica)
12 October: 2nd ODI at Junction Oval, Melbourne – 10:05 am local time (7:05 pm October 11 Eastern Caribbean, 6:05 pm Jamaica)
14 October: 3rd ODI at Junction Oval, Melbourne – 10:05 am local time (7:05 pm October 13 Eastern Caribbean, 6:05 pm Jamaica)