“The ODI series against Ireland provides a good opportunity for batsmen to focus and stay longer in the crease and build up an innings,” said Ann Browne-John, the CWI’s chief selector for women’s cricket. “Several of the younger players would make the transition from the shorter format to the 50+ format. They definitely have the potential, and it is important that the policy of identifying young players and developing the talent pool continues.”

The ODI series is part of the Women’s Championship, where the West Indies and Ireland are the bottom-placed teams. Both teams have played six games each so far; The West Indies have a win while Ireland are yet to open their account.

“The team displays great batting balance along with a variety of bowling styles, which is something that has been lacking in the recent past,” said Browne-John. “Win here will provide valuable points as the team tries to move up the rankings and qualify for the World Cup.”

The ODI series on June 26, the West Indies’ first ODI cricket since December 2022, will be followed by three T20Is. All six matches will be played at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in St. Lucia and, for the first time, a full West Indies women’s bilateral home series will be broadcast live on television.

These are the only home games for the West Indies this year.

Provisional squad for the first two ODIs: Hayley Matthews (captain), Shemaine Campbelle (vice-captain), Aaliyah Alleyne, Shamilia Connell, Chinelle Henry, Afy Fletcher, Cherry-Ann Fraser, Shabika Gajnabi, Zaida James, Djenaba Joseph, Qiana Joseph, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Shunelle Sawh , Stafanie Taylor, Rashada Williams