England experienced a surprising exit from the T20 World Cup on Tuesday, as the West Indies delivered a commanding performance, securing a six-wicket victory by chasing down England's 142-run target within 18 overs. This substantial margin of victory allowed them to surpass South Africa on net run rate, securing the top spot in Group B.
The victory propels the West Indies to the semi-final against New Zealand on Friday, while South Africa will face the reigning champions, Australia, in Thursday's semi-final. This marks the West Indies' first T20 win against England since 2018 and their first appearance in the semi-finals of a global tournament since then. Despite the absence of one of their key players, Stafanie Taylor, due to injury, the Caribbean team managed to achieve this feat.
Deandra Dottin played a pivotal role in this victory, having unexpectedly reversed her decision to retire from international cricket in July this year. Her exceptional fielding, including two catches, a run-out, and a wicket, along with her 27 runs off 19 balls, sealed England's fate. England's total of 141 for seven seemed inadequate on the Dubai ground, where three teams had already surpassed 160 runs in this World Cup.
England's challenges were further compounded when captain Heather Knight had to retire hurt due to a calf injury, leaving Nat Sciver-Brunt to take over the captaincy. Sciver-Brunt valiantly led the batting effort, scoring an unbeaten 57 from 50 balls, but the team's performance lacked cohesion in Knight's absence. Opener Qiana Joseph's erratic batting and multiple dropped catches added to England's woes.
Despite Joseph's eventual dismissal and Hayley Matthews' half-century, it was Dottin who took control, scoring 16 runs off Charlie Dean's over. Although she was bowled by Sophie Ecclestone with six runs still needed, Aaliyah Alleyne sealed the victory with two boundaries. Dottin's earlier fielding efforts, including a crucial catch and a run-out, further demonstrated her impact on the game.
Dottin, known as the 'World Boss,' lived up to her moniker on Tuesday, as the West Indies celebrated an unlikely but well-deserved victory. With just two matches standing between them and the World Cup, the unpredictability of this West Indies side makes anything possible.
