Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating a thrilling competition at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 as top teams, including West Indies, vie for the prestigious title.

Ranked sixth in the T20I rankings, the West Indies women’s cricket team is preparing to make a powerful statement on the global stage. Their journey begins with a high-stakes clash against South Africa, ranked just above them in fifth place.

Here’s the West Indies best XI for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

1. Hayley Matthews (Captain, All-rounder)

The captain and heartbeat of the team, Hayley Matthews is an explosive all-rounder who has been a pivotal force for West Indies since her international debut at the tender age of 16. Now 26, she brings experience, aggression, and tactical brilliance to the field. Her leadership, along with her ability to influence the game with both bat and ball, will be essential for West Indies as they look to make a deep run in the tournament. Matthews’ strategic approach will be tested early on against formidable teams like South Africa and England.

2. Deandra Dottin (All-rounder)

After a brief hiatus from international cricket, Deandra Dottin returns with renewed energy and determination. One of the most feared batters in women’s cricket, Dottin is known for her explosive shot-making and match-winning capabilities. Her return to the West Indies squad is a significant boost, and her experience will play a critical role in high-pressure matches, particularly as the team navigates Group B.

3. Stafanie Taylor (All-rounder)

A legend of West Indies cricket, Stafanie Taylor’s influence on the game is unparalleled. As one of the most accomplished players in the history of the sport, her experience will be crucial for guiding the younger members of the team. Taylor’s consistency with both bat and ball, combined with her tactical insights, makes her a key player for West Indies in their pursuit of World Cup glory.

4. Shemaine Campbelle (Top-order batter)

As vice-captain and a top-order batter, Shemaine Campbelle provides a calm and steadying influence in the batting lineup. Known for her reliability, she will be crucial in building solid partnerships at the top of the order, her quick reflexes will help maintain pressure on opponents and provide strategic support to Matthews.

Also READ: Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – Where to watch in India, Australia, USA, UK, Pakistan, Canada & other countries

5. Chedean Nation (Wicketkeeper-batter)

Chedean Nation brings versatility to the West Indies side, contributing both with the gloves and the bat. As a middle-order batter, Nation is known for her ability to finish games under pressure. Her sharp glovework and powerful batting will add depth to the squad, especially during the critical middle overs.

6. Chinelle Henry (Fast Bowler)

Chinelle Henry’s pace and ability to swing the ball make her one of the most exciting fast bowlers in the West Indies lineup. Known for her knack of taking early wickets, Henry’s form will be instrumental in dictating the flow of games. Her bowling at the start of innings will be pivotal in breaking through strong batting line-ups.

7. Aaliyah Alleyne (All-rounder)

Aaliyah Alleyne, a power-hitter and pace bowler, offers West Indies a dynamic all-round option. Her ability to contribute with both bat and ball in crucial moments makes her a potential game-changer. Alleyne’s skill in delivering under pressure, particularly in crunch situations, will be vital for West Indies.

8. Ashmini Munisar (All-rounder)

Ashmini Munasar’s all-round capabilities as a lower-order hitter and off-spinner make her a valuable asset. Her sharp bowling, especially in breaking important partnerships, combined with her ability to add quick runs towards the end of the innings, will provide West Indies with additional depth in both batting and bowling.

9. Shamilia Connell (Fast Bowler)

As one of the most experienced pacers in the squad, Shamilia Connell will spearhead the West Indies pace attack. Known for her ability to bowl lethal deliveries in high-pressure situations, Connell’s role in the death overs will be particularly crucial. Her performances in the UAE’s conditions will be key to West Indies’ success in restricting opposing teams.

10. Afy Fletcher (Leg-spin Bowler)

Afy Fletcher is set to be West Indies’ primary spin weapon during the tournament. Her leg-spin, with variations in flight and turn, will pose a significant challenge to batters on the slower UAE pitches. Fletcher’s ability to control the middle overs and take important wickets could prove decisive in tight contests.

11. Karishma Ramharack (Off-spin Bowler)

Completing the spin department, Karishma Ramharack’s off-spin will be a key element in West Indies’ strategy. Her ability to bowl with precision and generate early movement will be essential for breaking partnerships and containing opposition batters. Ramharack’s control and accuracy will be instrumental in keeping run rates low on the spin-friendly tracks of the UAE.

Also READ: South Africa’s best XI for the ICC Women’s T20I World Cup 2024

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.