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 before the start of the match.The incident happened shortly after the national anthem. Dottin appeared to be in visible discomfort, though it was not immediately clear if he was suffering from an injury or a medical issue.His early exit raised concerns in the West Indies camp ahead of one of their biggest matches of the tournament.
Dottin returned 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 at no. 8, he played a fighting knock of 26 not out from 16 balls, adding a vital partnership with Jannillea Glasgow to help 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.
The coach gives a health update
Speaking during the innings break, West Indies head coach Shane Deitz confirmed that Dottin is feeling fine.“He had a little bit of an issue but he’s fine now, and he had a good innings there.”After the innings, Deitz revealed that Dottin was suffering from a medical problem but praised his determination.“He had a little medical issue,” coach Deitz said.“He’s good now and he played a good innings at the end there. Gave us a little bit of totality.“Hopefully if we pump well, some early wickets, we have a chance to get this win.“He is a strong character. It will be difficult to contain him. Hopefully he will come out and chip in with a wicket or two.”
Australia cruise to the final
West Indies reached the semi-finals after defeating 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 Women’s T20 World Cup final.Ashleigh Gardner led the chase with a stunning unbeaten 61 off 36 balls, ensuring Australia progressed quickly.