Sana Mir’s Analysis of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier Semi-Finals
Despite my initial predictions of Ireland and Sri Lanka securing their spots for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in Bangladesh, I am pleasantly surprised by Scotland’s victory. Their all-round performance, led by their inspirational captain Kathryn Bryce, was truly deserving of the first semi-final win.
Scotland’s strategy was impeccable from the start. The dismissals of Amy Hunter and Gaby Lewis were a significant setback for Ireland, from which they couldn’t recover. The loss of their two key batters, who were among the top run-scorers in the group stage, was evident in the remainder of their innings.
Scotland’s preparation was impressive, particularly in the dismissal of Lewis. It seemed like a well-planned move by Bryce, who had two mid-wickets inside the circle for Lewis, leading to her hitting the ball straight into the hands of one of them.
After restricting Ireland to 110, Scotland maintained control of the game. Their chase was well-executed, with Megan McColl’s aggressive 50 and Sasika Horley’s efforts to prevent early wickets. Bryce’s batting was equally impressive, resulting in one of the most memorable all-round performances in Scottish women’s cricket history.
The sight of the Bryce sisters at the crease for the winning run was a fitting end to the game. The joy in the Scotland camp was heartwarming, and I wish them the best for their upcoming games in Bangladesh.
In the second semi-final, the UAE put up a strong fight against Sri Lanka. Esha Oza’s presence at the crease gave them an edge at times. However, Sri Lanka’s experience and big-match awareness ultimately led them to victory.
The UAE’s decision to bowl first was bold. Despite not securing an early wicket, their bowlers, particularly Samaira Dharnidharka, started strong. The young leg-spinner, Vaishnave Mahesh, provided the breakthroughs for the UAE. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s Vishmi Gunaratne, despite her young age, showed great potential and maturity, becoming the second highest run scorer of the tournament.
Gunaratne’s 45-run innings was crucial for Sri Lanka’s final score. Her ability to change gears after Athapaththu’s departure and set a platform for the middle-order batters was impressive. The Sri Lanka players’ fitness levels and running between wickets were key differences between the teams.
Esha Oza’s innings was remarkable and a pleasure to watch. Her ability to put pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers was commendable. As long as she was at the crease, the UAE were in the game. Sri Lanka must have been relieved to see her leave the crease in the 16th over.
Udeshika Prabodhani’s experience as a bowler and Athapaththu’s leadership as a captain were instrumental in securing Sri Lanka’s qualification. I am confident that we will see more of Oza on the world stage, and I hope she can lead the UAE to an ICC world event soon.
Looking ahead to the final, Scotland will enter the game with confidence, having already secured qualification. I expect them to put up a strong fight. Their 10-wicket defeat in the group stage is now in the past, and I anticipate a much closer game.
For Sri Lanka, winning the tournament and asserting their dominance at this level is crucial. With a cricket legend like Athapaththu in their ranks, I don’t foresee Sri Lanka faltering in the final.
I am excited to see Athapaththu and Bryce lead their teams in the tournament one last time. The contest between them, especially with Bryce taking the new ball and Athapaththu playing her naturally aggressive game, should be thrilling.
May the best team triumph at Zayed Cricket Stadium tomorrow!