NEW DELHI: There was a worrying moment ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final between West Indies and Australia at The Oval on Tuesday, as star all-rounder Deandra Dottin had to be carried off the field by her teammates just before the start of the match.The incident happened shortly after the national anthems. Dottin appeared to be in visible pain, although it was not immediately clear if he had suffered an injury or a medical problem.His first outing raised concerns in the West Indies camp ahead of one of their biggest matches of the tournament.
Dottin returns to bat for the West Indies
Despite the scare, Dottin returned later in the innings when the West Indies were in deep trouble at 83/6.Batting in No. 8, played a fighting knock of 26 not out off 16 balls, adding an important partnership with Jannillea Glasgow to help the West Indies recover to 125/7 in their 20 overs.At one stage, the Caribbean side looked set for a much lower total before Dottin’s late cameo gave them a fighting chance.
Coach provides health update
Speaking during the innings break, West Indies coach Shane Deitz confirmed Dottin was feeling better.“He had a bit of a problem, but he’s fine now, and he had a great innings here.”After the innings, Deitz revealed that Dottin had suffered a medical problem, but praised his determination.“He had a little medical problem,” coach Deitz said.“He’s doing well now and he played a great innings at the end there. He gave us a little bit of a total.”“Hopefully, if we need it right, a few early wickets, we have a chance to get this win.“She’s a tough character. It’s hard to keep her down. I hope she comes out and chips in with a wicket or two.”
Cruise to Australia in the final
The West Indies reached the semi-finals after wins over New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Scotland in the group stage.However, their campaign ended in the last four as Australia comfortably chased down the target.The six-time champions reached 126/2 in just 13 overs, sealing an eight-wicket victory to book their place in the final of the Women’s T20 World Cup.Ashleigh Gardner led the chase with a superb unbeaten 61 from 36 balls, ensuring Australia progressed with ease.
