The first match of the ODI series between WI vs SL is scheduled to take place on June 3, 2026, in the historical venue, Sabina Park, located in Kingston, Jamaica. This will be the first of three ODI matches scheduled between these two national teams. Due to their respective national teams’ busy ODI schedule in the near future, both squads will be interested in gaining some momentum with a victory in this first match.
The 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup in India has made ODI matches more important for the West Indies, as they aim to play the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup. For Sri Lanka, this is the first match of their ODI tour of the Caribbean. They are looking for some early momentum after an inconsistent stretch of limited-overs matches.
WI vs SL 1st ODI Match Information
- Match – WI vs SL, 1st ODI
- Date – June 3, 2026
- Venue – Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica
- Format – One Day International
West Indies Returning to ODI After Series Loss
West Indies have the additional challenge of returning to ODI cricket after an extended delay. Their last ODI matches were in the 2026 New Zealand Series, which the West Indies lost 3-0. Since then, they have focused their international matches on the T20 format, which has included participation in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. West Indies have a record of successfully hosting international matches. The 2023 ICC T20 World Cup highlighted the West Indies’ recent struggles in international T20 cricket. The West Indies are looking for a strong start in this first match, and will have the aid of some experienced players, including Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer, Alzarri Joseph, and Sherfane Rutherford.
Sri Lankan Tour Starts in the West Indies
This will be Sri Lanka’s first tour of the West Indies since the pandemic. Part of the touring party is made up of Sri Lanka’s young, fresh up and coming cricketers, as well as some of the more veteran cricketers. Earlier on in the year, Sri Lanka hosted England for a short preceded ODI series, and England won this series 2-1. Sri Lanka will depend on the talents of Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Charith Asalanka, and Maheesh Theekshana. Combined with the expected spin on the surface, Sri Lanka’s bowling attack could prove quite challenging.
Sabina Park Pitch Report
The most recent matches at this venue suggest that there has been some assistance for the bowlers, particularly in the middle overs. The batters may struggle, as they will have to time their attacks. Cloud cover most likely will keep the surface fresh for the bowlers. As the new ball wears on, the surface will become more difficult for the bowlers, meaning the slower bowlers will take on a larger role. An initial total of 240-260 will be challenging to defend.
WI vs SL Weather Report
Weather predictions in Kingston expect conditions to be warm and humid.
- Temp: 30-34 degrees celsius
- Humidity: 70-80%
- Conditions: Partially cloudy, with chances of brief showers and afternoon thunderstorm.
- Though an interruption of rain is expected, a full match is more likely.
Sabina Park ODI Statistics
To date, Sabina Park has hosted 40 ODI matches.
- Matches Won Batting First: 15
- Matches Won Chasing: 24
- Average First Innings Score: 235
- Average Second Innings Score: 193
Chasing is preferred at this venue based on the data.
WI vs SL Toss Prediction
Given the data for the venue and considering there may be early bowler’s assistance, it is likely the captain that wins the toss will opt to bowl first.
WI vs SL Probable Playing XI
West Indies
Ackeem August, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (C & WK), Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, Matthew Forde, Gudakesh Motie, Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales
Sri Lanka
Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (C & WK), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera
WI vs SL Match Prediction
Quality bowling is likely to make the first ODI a close contest. The West Indies will be hard to beat on home soil, but Sri Lankan spin bowling may unsettle the West Indies.