The recently concluded 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier featured ten teams and served as the gateway to the Women’s T20 World Cup scheduled to be held in Bangladesh later this year.
Let’s explore the notable milestones achieved during the global qualifier:
Top run-scorer
Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu, aged 34, emerged as the top run-scorer in the tournament, amassing an impressive total of 226 runs across 6 matches. With an average of 45.20, her standout performance included a remarkable innings of 102 runs off 63 balls against Scotland in the final. Throughout the tournament, she recorded one half-century and one century, showcasing her exceptional batting prowess.
Leading wicket-taker
Rachel Slater of Scotland emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, claiming an impressive total of 11 wickets in 6 matches. With an average of 13.81 and an economy rate of 7.60, Slater showcased exceptional bowling prowess throughout the tournament. Her standout performance came against Uganda, where she achieved her first five-wicket haul in T20Is, finishing with figures of 5/17.
Highest individual score
The highest individual score of the tournament was achieved by Sri Lanka’s left-handed batter and captain, Chamari Athapaththu, during the final clash against Scotland on May 7th in Abu Dhabi. Athapaththu showcased extraordinary skill and determination, scoring a remarkable 102 runs off just 63 balls. Despite facing a challenging situation with wickets falling at the other end, Athapaththu held her ground and fought a solitary battle till the end. Thanks to her outstanding innings, Sri Lanka managed to achieve a respectable total of 169/5.
Best bowling figure
The best bowling figure of the tournament belonged to Scotland’s Rachel Slater, who recorded remarkable figures of 5/17. Slater achieved this exceptional feat during the match against Uganda, showcasing her exceptional bowling skills and determination. Scotland emerged victorious in that encounter, securing a comprehensive win over Uganda by a commanding margin of 109 runs.
Highest total by a team
The record for the highest team total in the tournament was established by Ireland during their Group B encounter against Zimbabwe. Opting to bat first, Ireland posted an impressive total of 176/3 on the scoreboard. This formidable score was largely attributed to a stellar 130-run opening partnership between Amy Hunter and Gaby Lewis. Despite Zimbabwe’s efforts, they were unable to chase down the target within the allotted 20 overs. Amy Hunter’s remarkable contribution of 71 runs off 50 balls earned her the well-deserved Player of the Match title.
Lowest total by a team
The lowest total by a team in the tournament was recorded by Uganda during their Group A encounter against Scotland. While chasing Scotland’s imposing total of 161/3, Uganda struggled and were bowled out for a mere 52 runs in 12.2 overs. The Ugandan batting lineup faced consecutive setbacks, with Scotland’s Rachel Slater delivering an exceptional bowling performance to claim her first five-wicket haul in T20Is, finishing with outstanding figures of 5/17.