West Indies defeat Scotland by 7 runs in Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 match

Aaliyah Alleyne produced a match-winning late burst as West Indies survived a tense finish to defeat Scotland by just seven runs in a thrilling Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Group B clash on Thursday.

The West Indies looked in control for large parts of the contest, but were pushed to the edge after a determined Scotland batting effort led by Darcey Carter, whose impressive half-century kept her side’s hopes alive deep into the chase of 154.

Scotland’s opening stand between Carter and Katherine Fraser provided a flying start, smashing 51 runs inside the first five overs and putting pressure on the Caribbean side early. Carter eventually went on to score a fluent 59, anchoring Scotland’s innings and keeping them within reach of an upset.

However, West Indies’ disciplined bowling attack ensured they stayed in the contest. Spin duo Hayley Matthews and Afy Fletcher applied the brakes in the middle overs, combining for figures of 5-35 and restricting Scotland’s momentum at a crucial stage.

The match reached a dramatic climax in the penultimate over when Alleyne stepped up with a decisive spell. The 31-year-old medium pacer struck three times in quick succession, dismissing Carter, Ailsa Lister, and Kirstie Gordon to swing the game firmly in West Indies’ favour and seal a hard-fought victory.

Despite Carter’s heroics, Scotland were eventually bowled out for 146, falling just short of their target in a gripping finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final ball.

Earlier in the match, West Indies had their own batting struggles. After a shaky start that saw them reduced to 85-5 in the 15th over, it was veteran Stafanie Taylor who rescued the innings with a brilliant unbeaten 47 off just 19 balls.

Her explosive knock, featuring three towering sixes and four boundaries, shifted the momentum back towards the West Indies and lifted them to a competitive total of 153-6.

Taylor’s late surge proved crucial, giving her bowlers something to defend in a match that could easily have slipped away.

The victory marks West Indies’ second consecutive win in the tournament, following their opening triumph over reigning champions New Zealand. With momentum now building, the 2016 champions are beginning to look like strong contenders once again.

For Scotland, despite the narrow defeat, their spirited performance—especially with the bat—showed they are capable of challenging higher-ranked teams and remain competitive in Group B.

In the end, it was West Indies’ experience in key moments that made the difference in a match defined by pressure, resilience, and late drama.