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Cricket News Updated Jun 12, 2026

Women's T20 WC 2026: WI vs NZ Match Preview & Details

Defending champions New Zealand begin their ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against West Indies on June 13 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Led by star all-rounder Melie Kerr, the White Ferns are confident after winning their maiden title in 2024. West Indies, captained by Hayley Matthews, aim to bounce back from a 3-0 T20I series defeat to England. New Zealand have historically dominated the rivalry with 18 wins in 25 matches.

Women's T20 WC 2026: When and Where to watch WI vs NZ, know all details

Southampton, June 12

Defending champions New Zealand will begin their ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against West Indies in the fourth match of the tournament at the Rose Bowl on Saturday.

Having lifted their maiden Women's T20 World Cup title in the UAE in 2024, the White Ferns enter the competition with confidence and will be eager to make a strong start to the defence of their crown. Led by star all-rounder Melia Kerr, New Zealand are among the favourites to progress from a competitive Group 2.

West Indies, captained by Hayley Matthews, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 3-0 T20I series defeat to England earlier this year. The Caribbean side possess several match-winners and will be keen to upset the defending champions in their opening fixture.

Historically, New Zealand have enjoyed the upper hand in this rivalry. Of the 25 women's T20 internationals played between the two teams, the White Ferns have won 18, while West Indies have emerged victorious on five occasions. The remaining matches ended without a result or in a tie.

With valuable points at stake early in the tournament, both sides will be determined to start their Women's T20 World Cup campaign on a winning note.

When: Saturday, June 13, 11:00 PM IST

Where: The Rose Bowl stadium, Southampton

Where to watch: The West Indies vs New Zealand match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game.

Squads:

West Indies: 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

New Zealand: Melie Kerr (c), Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Lea Tahuhu

— IANS

Reader Comments

Priya S

Finally, a match where India isn't playing but still exciting to watch! New Zealand's bowling attack looks solid with Rosemary Mair and Lea Tahuhu. West Indies need Hayley Matthews to fire early. Hope Star Sports does a good job with the broadcast - sometimes our domestic coverage needs improvement.

James A

As a cricket enthusiast from the US, I love how the women's game is growing globally. The 18-5 head-to-head record is pretty dominant by NZ, but T20s can be unpredictable. Stafanie Taylor's experience could be key for West Indies. Also, JioHotstar streaming is a gamechanger for fans like me!

Rohit P

I wish BCCI would learn from how NZC promotes women's cricket - they've built a champion team without much fanfare. Our women's team is strong too, but we need better grassroots development. Anyway, looking forward to this match! Melie Kerr vs Hayley Matthews will be a great contest.

Michael C

I'm from the UK but living in India now - love that I can catch this match on Star Sports! The Rose Bowl is a great venue for T20s. West Indies seem to have a young squad this time - players like Jahzara Claxton and Jannillea Glasgow will be ones to watch. Let's go Windies! 🏆

Kavya N

11 PM IST is a bit late for working professionals like me, but I'll record it! New Zealand's batting lineup looks deep with Devine and Bates still going strong. My only criticism is that women's cricket still doesn't get prime-time slots

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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