SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates – Eight years ago, the West Indies edged out New Zealand by just six runs in a thrilling second semifinal of the 2016 T20 World Cup, booking their spot in the final. They went on to claim their maiden World T20 title with a victory over Australia.
Fast forward to this Friday, and the Windies will hope for history to repeat itself as they face the Kiwis once more in the second semifinal of the current tournament in Sharjah.
After suffering a heavy 10-wicket defeat at the hands of South Africa, the West Indies bounced back with wins in their remaining group-stage matches against Bangladesh, Scotland, and England, reigniting their campaign.
Captain Hayley Matthews is hoping that the team can ride on that momentum and book a spot once again in the grand finale.
“I think we’re proud of what we’ve been able to achieve. No one kind of had us to get to this stage, so I think we’re all pretty happy that we’ve made it here. The job’s just not finished yet and we got our eyes locked on the game tomorrow and ready for New Zealand, and hopefully ready to play a really big game.”
New Zealand’s journey to the semifinal has been far from smooth, despite securing three wins in four matches. Their only loss came at the hands of Australia, but even their victories, though comfortable on paper, tell a tale of struggle and near collapses for the White Ferns.
“We’ve spoken a lot as a group that we don’t want to get too high and too low and that’s key for us is to make sure that we get back on that level playing of emotions. We are just really looking forward now to what’s going to be an exciting game tomorrow,” said White Ferns captain Sophie Devine.
Despite New Zealand holding a dominant head-to-head record of 15 wins to just five losses in 24 encounters, the Windies might carry an edge in this semifinal showdown. The spin-friendly tracks in Sharjah play to their strengths, with 17 of their 20 wickets in the group stage falling to spin. The West Indies will rely heavily on their spinners, with Hayley Matthews, Afy Fletcher, Karishma Ramharack, and Zaida James leading the attack.
For New Zealand, Amelia Kerr, who tops the bowling charts alongside South Africa’s Nonkululeko Mlaba, will be pivotal. Leigh Kasperek’s off-spin could also return to bolster the Kiwi attack.
Stafanie Taylor remains doubtful for the Windies, but the team has proven capable in her absence. Deandra Dottin has been in ferocious form, leading the tournament with six towering sixes, twice as many as any other player. Her power-hitting will be crucial to the Windies’ chances.
New Zealand will be looking to Georgia Plimmer, who has been in excellent form, while Suzie Bates is due for a big performance. Much will also depend on the experienced captain Devine to steady the ship.
(CMC)
