West Indies women’s squad for the World Cup, which will be played in England in June-July, features four new faces, including 16-year-old fast bowler Qiana Joseph. The three other newcomers include 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman Reniece Boyce, 23-year-old allrounder Akeira Peters and 25-year-old opening batsman Felicia Walters.
Chairman of the selection panel Courtney Browne said these four players caught the eye at the emerging women’s players camp held last year. “The team is composed of a mixture of youth and experience,” Browne said. “Performances in this year’s Women’s Regional Super50 Tournament along with the form of incumbent players over the last few international tours were taken into consideration.
“The panel felt all four [new] players bring a specific skill-set to the team. It should also be noted that all four players are products of our last training camp for emerging women’s players held last year. We feel at this time that these players, although not as experienced, have shown improvement and can add value to our squad.”
Allrounder Shanel Daley, who last played in November 2014, returned to the squad. Browne said of her selection: “Shanel’s ability as a player has never been in question. She however, had some injury issues over the last few years. Those issues are now under control and our medical personnel, as well as Oba Gulston, the physiotherapist for the women’s team, will continue to monitor and manage her.”
Allrounder Shaquana Quintyne missed out with injury.
The Women’s World Cup runs from June 24 to July 23. West Indies play their first match on June 26, against Australia in Taunton. They are one of eight teams in the tournament, alongside Australia, England, India, New Zealand, South Africa, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. (ESPNCricinfo)
