West Indies could be celebrating a double success on Sunday night as their women take on Australia earlier in the day in Kolkata. It will not be easy, though, as Australia are aiming to become champions for the fourth time in a row.
West Indies have already made history: by making their first final they have broken the dominance of Australia, England and New Zealand, the only sides previously to have reached a Women’s World T20 final.
“We have been waiting for this for four years now and it’s fantastic to be in a final,” said the West Indies captain, Stafanie Taylor. “If we are consistent enough we can definitely win in the final.”
Australia beat England by six runs in the semi-final and are heavy favourites to win, but their captain, Meg Lanning, says she’s is still learning. “Taking over the role as captain has been an enjoyable experience,” she said. “I’ve been able to talk and learn from a number of people about captaincy, which has been fantastic.
“The team has supported me really well. It’s been good so far, I’m looking forward to this World Cup and beyond.”
Australia have a strong and varied attack, with the right-arm fast bowler Megan Schutt to the fore, but West Indies have the hard-hitting Deandra Dottin, who is averaging 27.25 with the bat and has claimed six wickets in her past four matches.
