Women's T20 WC: West Indies opt to bowl first with SF at stake
Bristol, June 21
West Indies won the toss and elected to bowl against Sri Lanka in the 17th match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup here at County Ground in a fixture that will probably decide the fate of Group B with a spot in the semi-final at stake.
West Indies head into today's contest with momentum firmly on their side after opening their campaign with back-to-back victories. While neither win came without anxious moments, particularly their hard-fought escape against Scotland, they have still managed to collect four valuable points. Another success today would leave them well placed in the race for a semifinal berth from Group B.
Sri Lanka have recovered impressively after a difficult start to the tournament. Following a one-sided defeat against England, they produced one of the biggest surprises of the competition by toppling defending champions New Zealand. That result has revived their campaign, and another win this afternoon would draw them level with West Indies on points, adding another twist to an already competitive group.
The Caribbean side will also be wary of recent meetings between these teams. Earlier this year, Sri Lanka travelled to the West Indies and emerged with a 2-0 T20I series victory, underscoring their ability to trouble today's opponents. Fresh from their confidence-boosting win over New Zealand, Sri Lanka will believe they have every chance of repeating that success on the global stage.
Winning the toss, Windies skipper Hayley Matthews said, "Going to have a bowl. Good chance to see what the pitch is doing. We probably didn't bat well enough in that series (the one they lost to SL earlier this year). Conditions here are different and favour us more. Qiana Joseph is out. Munesar comes in. She comes in as an extra spinner to bolster the bowling. We feel we have enough firepower."
Meanwhile, Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu said, "Feeling good. Would've batted first if we won the toss. Confidence is good. Just because we beat WI in WI doesn't mean we can do that everytime. As professional cricketers we need to adjust according to the venue. One change for us."
Playing XIs:
West Indies: Deandra Dottin, Hayley Matthews (c), Shemaine Campbelle (wk), Stafanie Taylor, Jahzara Claxton, Chinelle Henry, Jannillea Glasgow, Aaliyah Alleyne, Afy Fletcher, Karishma Ramharack, Ashmini Munisar
Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Vishmi Gunarathne, Imesha Dulani, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Kaushini Nuthyangana (wk), Sugandika Dasanayaka, Kawya Kavindi, Nimasha Meepage, Mithali Ayodhya
— IANS
Reader Comments
Honestly, as an Indian fan, I'm more invested in this match than I expected. The women's game has grown so much in Subcontinent countries. Sri Lanka's win over NZ was huge for Associate cricket. Wish more people in India followed non-India matches in T20 WCs. We need more coverage! 🙌
West Indies brought in an extra spinner? That's interesting on what could be a used wicket in Bristol. SL lost the toss but wanted to bat first, so they'll have to chase. Their bowling lineup looks thin without Wanindu – I mean, without their main pace threat. Expecting Dottin to smash a few!
This is the kind of match that shows why women's cricket deserves more primetime slots. Two Asian teams (I consider WI as culturally Caribbean but historically connected) scrapping it out for a semi spot. Chamari's comments are spot on – you can't just import form from home conditions. Sri Lanka's confidence will be sky-high after beating NZ though. Edge: Windies because of their power-hitters in the middle overs.
Sri Lanka's recovery after that England drubbing is impressive. Reminds me of how some men's teams bounce back in tournaments. Chamari Athapaththu is a legend for SL women's cricket – she deserves a big knock today. But West Indies have more depth on paper. Should be a thriller! 🌟
I'm actually going to the ground today with my flatmates! Bristol weather is decent apparently ☀. Saw the pitch before the toss – might help spinners in the second half. That's why WI brought Munes
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