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As the English summer gets underway, England Women are set to face West Indies Women in a three-match ODI series, starting May 30. The hosts come into the series in red-hot form, having recently whitewashed the visitors 3-0 in the T20I series. On the other hand, West Indies will be eager to regroup and address their shortcomings. Under the leadership of skipper Hayley Matthews, they’ll be aiming to pull off an upset and challenge the in-form English side.
As both teams gear up for a competitive face-off, all eyes will be on a few standout performers expected to make a significant impact. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, these five players could define the outcome of the series.
Here are the top 5 players to watch out in England vs West Indie Women’s ODI series:
5. Tammy Beaumont (England)
England’s most reliable and technically sound batters in the ODI format, Tammy Beaumont starts the list. With more than 5500 ODI runs to her name, she is known for her composure and ability to anchor the innings, Beaumont brings so much of experience and match-winning potential. In home conditions, she becomes even more dangerous, capable of converting steady starts into big scores given her recent form. Against a West Indies bowling attack that’s still finding consistency, Beaumont’s role in setting the platform will be crucial for England’s success in this series.
4. Qiana Joseph (West Indies)
A young and promising talent, Qiana Joseph is beginning impress in the West Indies squad. A left-arm orthodox spinner and a handy batter, she brings valuable all-round skills to the side. With her ability to bowl economical spells and apply pressure in the middle overs, Joseph adds balance and depth to the Windies attack. She has shown glimpses of her potential in past outings and will be keen to step up in this high-stakes series. If the conditions favour spin, she could prove to be a vital asset. With the bat, she has the capability to contribute crucial runs down the order, making her a player to keep a close eye on.
3. Lauren Bell (England)
Lauren Bell has quickly become one of the most exciting fast bowlers in the women’s game. With 34 ODI wickets with an average of 25, her ability to generate swing, both in the air and off the pitch, makes her a constant threat with the ball. Bell’s recent performances for England have underlined her growth as a strike bowler. Against a West Indies side that often struggles against quality pace, Bell will be key to early breakthroughs. Her partnership with other experienced bowlers could help England maintain pressure and control through the middle overs.
Also READ: England’s best XI for the Women’s ODI series against West Indies
2. Hayley Matthews (West Indies)
The heartbeat of West Indies women’s cricket, Hayley Matthews comes into the series as arguably the most crucial player for her team. As an all-rounder, she contributes in every department explosive with the bat, reliable with the ball, and sharp in the field. Her century in the first T20I a week ago was a key highlight of her brilliance. Matthews has a knack for performing in pressure situations and lifting her side when it matters most. For West Indies to compete effectively against a strong English side, Matthews will need to be at her best. A few solid performances from her could tilt the balance of the series.
1. Nat Sciver-Brunt (England)
There are few players in world cricket as complete as Nat Sciver-Brunt. Whether it’s building an innings, accelerating at the right moment, or picking up key wickets, Sciver-Brunt does it all with class and consistency. The 32-year-old has 7,575 international runs, combined with 181 wickets in international cricket. She brings calm leadership, tactical nous, and unmatched versatility to the England setup. In recent ODIs, she has delivered with both bat and ball, often turning matches in England’s favour single-handedly. As the top player to watch in this series, Sciver-Brunt’s all-round brilliance could prove to be the deciding factor in England’s campaign.
Also READ: West Indies’ best XI for the Women’s ODI series against England
