New Delhi, Sept. 7 -- Barbados Royals have been dealt a major setback on the eve of their Women's Caribbean Premier League (WCPL) 2025 title defence, with skipper Hayley Matthews ruled out of the entire season due to a shoulder injury, as per ESPNcricinfo.

In Matthews' absence, all-rounder Chinelle Henry has been appointed as the stand-in captain and will lead the Royals' campaign this season.

Matthews' absence is a massive blow considering her impact on the tournament over the years. She is the highest run-scorer in WCPL history, amassing 424 runs at a strike rate of 113.06, and also the leading wicket-taker with 23 scalps at an economy rate of 5.79. The 27-year-old has played a pivotal role in the Royals' back-to-back title triumphs i...