ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier: Five Players to Watch
Gaby Lewis – Ireland (ICC Batter Ranking: 24)
At just 23, Gaby Lewis is already a senior member of the Ireland team. Having made her debut at 13, she has since made over 120 appearances for her country. With one century and 11 half-centuries at the T20I level, Lewis is expected to play a pivotal role in Ireland’s quest for one of the two available spots at this year’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in Abu Dhabi.
Kelis Ndhlovu – Zimbabwe (ICC All-Rounder Ranking: 17)
Zimbabwe’s rising star, 18-year-old Kelis Ndhlovu, is a player to watch in Abu Dhabi. Known for her crafty left-arm orthodox bowling and batting prowess, Ndhlovu recently scored a valuable 35 during Zimbabwe’s impressive victory over PNG.
Chamari Athapaththu – Sri Lanka (ICC Batter Ranking: equal 7th)
Chamari Athapaththu, the most decorated player at the event, is expected to make a significant impact. With over 6000 runs and 70 wickets from over 200 white-ball matches, Athapaththu is Sri Lanka’s highest run-getter in ODI and T20I formats. She will be relied upon to lead Sri Lanka’s batting order and secure a top-two finish in Abu Dhabi.
Kathryn Bryce – Scotland (ICC All-Rounder Ranking: 11)
Scotland captain Kathryn Bryce is a quiet achiever with impressive stats. With a batting average greater than 35 and a bowling average of almost 15 in her 40 T20I matches, Bryce is expected to challenge opposition batters with her swing bowling and contribute significantly with the bat.
Nattaya Boochatham – Thailand (ICC All-Rounder Ranking: 19)
Thailand’s Nattaya Boochatham is a key player with both bat and ball. The experienced off-spinner is expected to play a variety of roles at the event. Boochatham has often delivered her best performances when batting near the top of the order, and we may see her in this pinch-hitting role in Abu Dhabi.