Campbell pleased with warm-up matches

PARAGON, Barbados (CMC):

West Indies women's coach, Sherwin Campbell, says Tuesday's warm-up match against the Barbados Defence Force Sports Programme was crucial in his side's preparation for next month's ICC Women's Challenge in South Africa.

Playing at the BDF Sports Club, the Windies women chalked up 189 off their 50 overs, with Cordel Jack top-scoring with 34 and Shemaine Campbell getting 32.

BDF did not a get a chance to reply as heavy showers during the interval brought the match to a close.

"We are gearing up towards a major international tournament so it was good to let the girls get some time in the middle against stronger opposition," Campbell said.

"It was a good chance for them to bat. We tried to give everyone an opportunity. After that the rain came and we did not get a chance to bowl, so we will be looking for the bowlers to get some work in the upcoming matches before we leave for the tour."

Experienced member

Jack, the most experienced member of the squad, faced 71 balls and hit three boundaries and held the innings together after her side lost three wickets with just a single run on the board.

Campbell, a 17-year-old batter, struck her 32 from 57 balls with two boundaries, to rally the second half of the innings.

The Windies Women also played yesterday, and are slated to take part in another match today, before leaving on Saturday evening for South Africa.

West Indies will clash with hosts South Africa, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Ireland and the Netherlands in the tournament comprising one-day and Twenty20 matches, running from October 6-16.