Scotland Announces Team for ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier

Synopsis

Scotland has unveiled their 15-player squad aimed at qualifying for the women's 50-over World Cup in India. They are working towards a second consecutive World Cup after their historic appearance at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in 2024, featuring a blend of returning players and fresh talent.

Key Takeaways

Scotland's 15-player squad announced.
Aiming for a second consecutive World Cup qualification.
Includes 12 players from the previous T20 World Cup.
Pippa Sproul earns her first call-up after strong U19 performance.
Key players missing due to injuries and breaks.

Edinburgh, March 18 (NationPress) Scotland has announced their 15-player squad that will strive to secure one of two spots for this year's women's 50-over World Cup in India.

Scotland is aiming to qualify for their second consecutive World Cup after their groundbreaking first participation in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup held in the UAE in October 2024.

The European team has included 12 players who participated in last year's ICC Women's T20 World Cup, alongside the returning Nayma Sheikh and Ellen Watson. Pippa Sproul has earned her first call-up following an impressive performance at the ICC Women's Under 19 World Cup, where she was Scotland's top run scorer.

Olivia Bell will not be joining the squad as she is still recovering from a stress fracture in her back, while Saskia Horley is currently taking a break from international cricket.

The absence of Australian-born all-rounder Saskia Horley is notable, as the 25-year-old has opted to step back from international play. Spinner Olivia Bell is also out due to a shoulder injury.

"The qualifier presents an incredible opportunity; it's fantastic to bring the group back together, facing some strong teams and truly testing ourselves.

"We have gained a lot of experience over the past year, during the qualifying campaign for the last World Cup and the tournament itself, and we possess the confidence and understanding to navigate these qualifiers successfully.

"Qualifiers are always intense events, with minimal room for mistakes, and at this tournament, it feels like any team can emerge victorious," stated head coach Craig Wallace.

Two positions at this year's 50-over World Cup in India are up for grabs through next month's qualifying tournament, as Scotland seeks a top-two finish alongside West Indies, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Ireland, and Thailand.

The squad will travel to Dubai on March 25 for a preparation camp, followed by two official warm-up matches against Bangladesh (April 5) and Thailand (April 7) in Pakistan.

Scotland squad: Kathryn Bryce (c), Chloe Abel, Abbi Aitken-Drummond, Sarah Bryce (wk), Darcey Carter, Priyanaz Chatterji, Katherine Fraser, Ailsa Lister (wk), Abtaha Maqsood, Megan McColl, Hannah Rainey, Nayma Sheikh, Rachel Slater, Pippa Sproul, Ellen Watson (wk)