BROOKLYN (New York):
The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has announced a 15-member squad to represent the region in the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup from June 24 to July 23 in England. Four new players have gotten the selectors nod in a team that many feel confident will be the one to beat.
Making their debut trip with the squad are: Reniece Boyce, a 19-year-old wicketkeeper/batsman from regional champions Trinidad and Tobago; Quiana Joseph, a 16-year-old fast bowler from St Lucia; Akeira Peters, a 23-year-old left-handed all-rounder from Grenada; and Felicia Walters, a 25-year-old opening batsman and part-time spin bowler, also from Trinidad and Tobago.
“The team is composed of a mixture of youth and experience.
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,” said Courtney Browne, chairman of the Selection Panel.
In respect to the inclusion of four uncapped players in the squad, Browne explained: “The panel felt that we have enough experience in the side and that all four 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 also feel at this time that these players, although not as experienced, have shown improvement and can add value to our squad. We would encourage those that missed out to continue working and improving their skills, so that they can be considered for future tours.”
Browne was also asked about the return to the team of left-handed all-rounder Shanel Daley. He said that “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.”
The full squad:
Stafanie Taylor (Captain)
Merissa Aguilleira
Reniece Boyce
and then 