Dubai: West Indies captain Hayley Matthews expressed confidence ahead of the team’s opening match against South Africa on Friday, as they seek to capitalize on long-term preparations for the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Matthews, who has led the team since 2022, emphasized that the squad has been preparing throughout the year with a series of matches against Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Australia, and Ireland.
According to International Cricket Council, Matthews highlighted the importance of the team’s extensive preparation, stating, “Every series you play, every training session you have is kind of towards that goal of a World Cup.” The West Indies, who failed to progress beyond the group stage when South Africa hosted the tournament last February, are hoping to improve this time with a strengthened squad, including the return of all-rounder Deandra Dottin.
Matthews believes that the current squad, which includes senior players like Shemaine Campbelle and Aaliyah Alleyne, could rival the team that won the T20 World Cup in 2016. The West Indies face South Africa at the Dubai International Stadium at 2 p.m. local time.
South Africa, who reached their first-ever World Cup final on home soil last year, have made key changes to their lineup. Laura Wolvaardt has taken over as captain, and Dillon du Preez has replaced Hilton Moreeng as head coach. Wolvaardt noted that her new role as captain has helped her focus on broader aspects of the game, while South Africa has also bolstered their coaching staff with dedicated batting and fielding coaches.