West Indies captain Hayley Matthews will not participate in the third and final ODI against Sri Lanka due to an illness, as confirmed by Cricket West Indies (CWI).
Matthews was already absent from the second ODI in Hambantota, where the West Indies were bowled out for a mere 92 runs in 31 overs. Sri Lanka successfully chased the target in 21.2 overs, securing a five-wicket victory. Shemaine Campbelle took over the captaincy for the second game and is expected to continue in this role for the upcoming third ODI on June 21 in Hambantota.
Despite Matthews' absence, CWI remains optimistic about her recovery in time for the three-match T20I series, which is set to begin on June 24 at the same venue.
In a statement, CWI announced, "West Indies Captain, Hayley Matthews, has been ruled out of the ongoing ODI series against Sri Lanka due to illness. She will be closely monitored by the CWI Medical Team, and we hope for her recovery before the T20I series. Everyone at CWI extends their best wishes for her swift recovery."
Over the past year and a half, Matthews has been a crucial player for the West Indies. She has amassed 519 runs in nine ODIs since the start of 2023, averaging an impressive 74.14 and including three centuries. Additionally, she has been a significant asset with the ball, claiming 11 wickets in the same period, sharing the highest wicket-taker spot with Afy Fletcher.
The West Indies have already lost the three-match ODI series to Sri Lanka, trailing 2-0. They were defeated in the first match last Saturday by six wickets and again in the second ODI on Tuesday. Matthews contributed 38 runs from 53 balls in the first game and bowled five overs, conceding 33 runs without taking a wicket.
Looking ahead, the three T20Is are scheduled for June 24, 26, and 28, all set to take place in Hambantota.