Deandra Dottin, the explosive batting all-rounder, has made a sensational return to the West Indies Women’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Dottin, who retired from international cricket in August 2022, reversed her decision last month and has quickly proven her worth by leading the Trinbago Knight Riders to the Women’s Caribbean Premier League final where they lost to the Barbados Royals.
The 33-year-old veteran has been a pivotal figure in West Indies cricket, having played 120 T20 Internationals (T20Is) with an impressive tally of 2,697 runs at an average of 25.68 and capturing 62 wickets with an economy rate of 6.42. Her return to the national setup was officially announced during Cricket West Indies’ quarterly press conference on Thursday, much to the delight of the team and its supporters.
Impact her presence
West Indies Women’s head coach, Shane Deitz, expressed his enthusiasm about Dottin’s return, highlighting the impact her presence will have on the squad, which will be captained by Hayley Matthews for the tournament scheduled from October 3 to 20.
“Having Deandra back is a tremendous boost for us. Her record is outstanding, and she continues to demonstrate her world-class abilities, as we’ve seen in the WCPL,” Deitz said. “She brings versatility, powerful hitting, smart batting, exceptional fielding, and valuable depth in bowling. Beyond her skills, she offers experience and leadership, especially in high-pressure situations, making her an invaluable asset as we head into the World Cup.”
The squad has undergone four changes since their last T20 series wins against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Cherry-Ann Fraser, Shabika Gajnabi, Rashada Williams, and Late Wilmott have been replaced by Dottin, Ashmini Munisar, Mandy Mangru, and Nerissa Crafton.
Eye on versatility
Coach Deitz emphasized that the selection was made with an eye on versatility and adaptability, crucial for taking on top teams like Australia, England, and India. He noted that the West Indies team must employ innovative strategies to compete with these powerhouses, focusing on the all-around abilities of their players.
“We’re facing some of the best teams in the world, so we can’t afford to stick to traditional methods. Our squad is designed for flexibility and variation, which will be key in our approach. We need to surprise our opponents and play to our strengths, particularly our all-round capabilities,” Deitz explained.
The West Indies Women, who lifted the T20 World Cup in 2016, will compete in Group B, alongside Bangladesh, England, Scotland, and South Africa. Their first match is set for October 4 against South Africa at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Squad: Hayley Matthews (captain), Shermaine Campbelle (vice-captain), Aaliyah Alleyne, Afy Fletcher, Ashmini Munisar, Chedean Nation, Chinelle Henry, Deandra Dottin, Karishma Ramharack, Mandy Mangru, Nerissa Crafton, Qiana Joseph, Shamila Connell, Stafanie Taylor, Zaida James.
