Windies women aim to start WC Qualification campaign on high note

LAHORE: West Indies women will take on Scotland Women in their opening match of the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2025 at the LCCA Cricket Ground, on Thursday (tomorrow).

As the road to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 begins, the West Indies are determined to extend their strong record, while Scotland are eager to make history with a maiden World Cup appearance.

The West Indies enter this qualifier as semi-finalists from the previous edition in 2022 and having qualified for seven of the last eight World Cups. Led by captain Hayley Matthews, the team boasts a balanced mix of experience and emerging talent.

Matthews will lead from the top, supported by batters Qiana Joseph, Shemaine Campbelle, Stephanie Taylor, and Zaida James. Chinelle Henry and Janillia Glasgow add depth to the middle order.

With a formidable bowling attack, West Indies will rely on pacers Shabika Gajnabi, Aaliyah Alleyne, and Chinelle Henry to make breakthroughs, while their spin department, spearheaded by Karishma Ramarack, Matthews, Taylor, and Afy Fletcher, will play a key role, particularly on the flat Lahore surface.

Scotland Women, on the other hand, are seeking their first-ever appearance at the Women’s World Cup. Led by Kathryn Bryce, the team features seasoned players like Sarah Bryce and Hannah Rainey, who are expected to provide a solid foundation at the top of the order. Alice Lister, Darcy Carter, and Megan McColl will be crucial in the middle overs.

The bowling attack will revolve around Rachael Slater and Kathryn Bryce, with Olivia Bell, Abhata Maqsood, and K. Fraser forming the spin trio. Scotland will need their bowlers to adapt quickly to conditions and counter West Indies’ aggressive batting lineup.

The LCCA pitch is known for being flat and batting-friendly, with spinners gaining prominence as the ball gets older. Teams are expected to opt to bowl first, given the favorable batting conditions throughout the match. Bright and sunny weather is forecasted for game day, ensuring no disruptions.

West Indies, with their strong batting lineup and versatile bowling attack, are favorites to secure a comfortable win. However, Scotland’s determination to make history could lead to a competitive contest.

Teams from: West Indies Women: Hayley Matthews (c), Qiana Joseph, Shemaine Campbelle, Stephanie Taylor, Zaida James, Chinelle Henry, Janillia Glasgow, Shabika Gajnabi, Aaliyah Alleyne, Karishma Ramarack, Afy Fletcher.