As the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, the spotlight turns to emerging talents who may make a significant impact on the global stage. Here's a closer look at some of these promising players:
Australia
Making her debut in 2022, Phoebe Litchfield enters her first World Cup as a young batter with immense potential. Despite doubts about securing her spot in Australia’s best XI, her recent half-century in a tense chase against New Zealand has cemented her place in the middle order. As one of the rare left-handed batters in the team, Litchfield brings versatility and innovation to the Australian line-up.
Bangladesh
A talented all-rounder with a knack for leg spin, Shorna Akter lacks the power-hitting skills but makes up for it with precision and timing. After a strong performance at the Under-19 World Cup, she was called up to the senior squad at only 16. Her quick 22-ball 31 against New Zealand and a striking 5 for 28 against South Africa have marked her as a player to watch. While her bowling can sometimes be costly, her high-paced approach provides Bangladesh with a much-needed edge.
India
At just 22, Shreyanka Patil has quickly become a key member of India’s spin attack, debuting internationally in December last year. Patil’s skill in high-pressure situations and ability to perform across various match phases make her indispensable. Although her batting chances for India have been limited, her talent in the WPL hints at her potential to challenge batters in the UAE.
New Zealand
Aged 20, Fran Jonas has already participated in both the ODI and T20 World Cups, as well as the Commonwealth Games, gaining substantial experience. She impressed with a personal best of 4 for 22 against England at Lord’s, and New Zealand captain Sophie Devine praised her spinners, predicting a crucial role for Jonas in the UAE alongside Amelia Kerr and Eden Carson.
Pakistan
Leg-spinner Syeda Aroob Shah’s early international debut in 2019 at just 16 showcased her potential, though she faced challenges retaining her place. After an impressive domestic season and leadership at the Under-19 World Cup, she returned to the senior team. With a solid leg break and an effective flipper, Aroob is capable of troubling batters and holds hope for Pakistan’s future.
South Africa
At 18, Seshnie Naidu has already amassed significant experience, playing in the Under-19 World Cup and Africa Games. In her debut against Pakistan, she stunned spectators with a remarkable catch and a wicket on her second ball. Known for her willingness to back her variations despite the risk, Naidu is poised to add strategic depth to South Africa’s attack.
Sri Lanka
A breakthrough year has seen Dilhari rise as an allrounder, with her offspin proving valuable for Sri Lanka. Her consistent wickets in England and South Africa demonstrate her bowling skills, while her recent contributions with the bat, including her maiden half-century against Ireland, make her a force in Sri Lanka’s middle order.
West Indies
Zaida James from St. Lucia has proven herself as a valuable allrounder, first stepping onto the senior Windward Islands team at 14. At the Under-19 World Cup, she was the top performer, leading in runs and wickets for West Indies. In the past year, James has earned her place with multiple appearances in ODIs and T20Is, marking her as one to watch for the West Indies.
England
Freya Kemp made waves in 2022 with a record-breaking fifty as England’s youngest player to reach this milestone. A back injury briefly sidelined her, but Kemp returned to form in the recent tour of Ireland, impressing with both bat and ball. A successful World Cup debut could be a defining moment in her comeback.
Scotland
Leading the wicket tally in the Qualifiers, Rachel Slater’s left-arm seam has been pivotal to Scotland’s first Women’s T20 World Cup entry. Her experience in English leagues and her 5 for 17 performance against Uganda reflect her potential to excel in the UAE.
As these young players bring their talent and drive to the T20 World Cup, their performance could set the stage for thrilling games and unforgettable moments, captivating cricket fans worldwide.