Sana Mir Predicts Sri Lanka and Scotland as Dark Horses in Women’s T20 World Cup
In the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2024 final held on 7 May, Sri Lanka triumphed over Scotland by a margin of 68 runs. Despite the defeat, both teams, having reached the semi-finals, have secured their spots in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in Bangladesh.
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Sri Lanka’s flawless journey to the title at the ICC Women’s #T20WorldCup 2024 Qualifier. pic.twitter.com/xF3YMUInW1
Sana Mir, the tournament’s brand ambassador, lauded both teams and predicted a strong performance from them in the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh.
Impressed by Sri Lanka’s unbeaten streak in the tournament, Sana believes that the team, under the leadership of Chamari Athapaththu, could extend this winning run into the T20 World Cup and possibly reach the semi-finals.
“Sri Lanka’s dominant performance is a continuation of their exceptional recent form, led by Athapaththu’s heroics,” Sana commented. “Their series victories against South Africa and New Zealand, along with a comfortable run in the Qualifier, put them in a strong position ahead of the Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh.”
Chamari Athapaththu century guides Sri Lanka | Final | Century Highlights | Women’s T20WC Qualifier 2024
Sana highlighted that Athapaththu, the leading run scorer for Sri Lanka in both ODI and T20I formats, is the backbone of the team. Her strong performance can significantly boost the team’s fortunes in the upcoming tournament.
“Despite being in a tough group with Australia, India, Pakistan, and New Zealand, Sri Lanka has the potential to cause upsets. If Athapaththu delivers in Bangladesh, they could surprise many and possibly even reach the semi-finals.”
Scotland’s performance in the Qualifier was equally commendable. Apart from their two losses to Sri Lanka, they had an impressive run, with their victory over Ireland in the semi-finals securing their spot in the T20 World Cup.
Sana praised Scotland skipper Kathryn Bryce for her team’s performance, expressing belief that with the right preparation, they could achieve similar success in Bangladesh. Bryce, despite missing the final due to a strain, had an outstanding performance, scoring 177 runs at an average of 88.5 and taking nine wickets at 6.88.
Kathryn Bryce reflects on Scotland’s historic run | ICC Women’s T20WC Qualifier 2024
“Scotland was not among the favourites at the start of the tournament, but credit to Kathryn Bryce and her team for stepping up when it mattered the most,” Sana said.
“Scotland will face Bangladesh, England, South Africa, and the West Indies in their Women’s T20 World Cup group. I believe they can certainly cause an upset or two. With about four months to the event, their success will depend on their preparation. The real work has just begun for them, and I wish them the very best on this exciting journey.”