Selman celebrates “best day” as Windies Women take series lead

Colombo, Sri Lanka – Fast bowler Shakera Selman turned in what she termed her "best performance in a West Indies shirt" as she starred in a hard-fought, four-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the first One-Day International on Friday.

The 23-year-old used the new ball with telling effect and ended with the impressive figures of 10-5-8-2 as West Indies limited the home side to 164-9 off their 50 overs at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. The World Number 2 team then reached 168-6 off 38 overs. The result gave them a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

The run chase was led by an awesome display of power-hitting from Deandra Dottin, who scorched 43 off 39 balls with four huge sixes. She added 73 for the fourth wicket with Kyshona Knight, who made a watchful 36, including six boundaries.

Despite having to contend with very hot conditions and a flat batting surface, Selman made the most of her return to the starting XI and used the new ball really well.

"It was very hot, I can’t ever remember playing in conditions so hot…and I had to dig deep to get that kind of performance out there. It was a case of mind over matter. At the end of my spell I had to come off due to cramp as the heat got the better of me, but I was glad I could do a great job for the team and get us off to a good start in the series," Selman told WICB Media after the match.

"I didn’t have a great tournament in the World Cup so I wanted to make sure I made a contribution on this trip. I didn’t want to let the team down so I made sure I gave it my all despite the tough conditions."

Selman added: "I’m very happy with my performance. It would have to rank as my best performance in a West Indies shirt. My best figures are 4-11 against Holland on my first tour – a few years back – but the way I bowled today I was really pleased with the effort and the outcome."

The West Indies went into the match without two key players – captain and main wicket-keeper Merissa Aguilleira and experienced left-hander Shanel Daley, who were unwell. Both are however expected to be available for the next game on Sunday.

The Windies will have a training session on Saturday afternoon at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium as they prepare for the upcoming match at the same venue.