West Indies Edge Past Scotland by 7 Runs in Tense World Cup Opener
West Indies held their nerve in a tense run-chase defence to beat Scotland by 7 runs at Headingley, kicking off their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a much-needed win in Group 1.
Batting first after Scotland won the toss and chose to bowl, West Indies posted 153/6 in their 20 overs. The innings was built around a lively middle-order stand, with captain Stafanie Taylor playing the standout knock — an unbeaten 47 off just 19 balls, laced with four boundaries and three sixes at a strike rate over 247. Shemaine Campbelle also chipped in with a fluent 36 off 26 balls before being run out late in the innings.
Scotland’s bowling attack kept things tight in patches, with Katherine Fraser the pick of the bowlers, taking 2 wickets for 34 runs, while Kirstie Gordon and Rachel Slater also picked up a wicket apiece.
The match swung late, with Scotland needing 14 off the final over before West Indies closed it out.
Scotland’s chase falls just short
In reply, Scotland were given a flying start by opener Darcey Carter, who anchored the innings with a gritty 59 off 62 balls — the joint-highest score of the match. She found support from Ailsa Lister, who struck 33 off 25 balls including a six, as the pair added 58 runs for the sixth wicket to keep Scotland in the hunt.
But West Indies’ bowlers clawed it back at the death. Aaliyah Alleyne was the standout with the ball, finishing with 3 wickets for just 11 runs, while Hayley Matthews also took 3 wickets, conceding 19. Scotland were eventually bowled out for 146 in the final over, falling 7 runs short despite the brave chase.
Match Summary
- West Indies: 153/6 (20 overs) — Stafanie Taylor 47* (19), Shemaine Campbelle 36 (26)
- Scotland: 146/10 (20 overs) — Darcey Carter 59 (62), Ailsa Lister 33 (25)
- Result: West Indies won by 7 runs
- Venue: Headingley Stadium, Leeds
The win gives West Indies a strong start to their World Cup campaign, while Scotland will look to regroup as the tournament continues.
