Alleyne's late burst helps West Indies edge Scotland in Women's T20 World Cup

Aaliyah Alleyne's late three-wicket burst proved decisive as the West Indies narrowly defeated Scotland by seven runs in a tense Women's T20 World Cup encounter.

Alleyne, a 31-year-old medium-pacer, dismantled Scotland's chase in the penultimate over, taking the crucial wickets of Darcey Carter, Ailsa Lister, and Kirstie Gordon. This intervention came after Carter's impressive half-century had given the Scots genuine hope of reaching the 154-run target.

Earlier, the West Indies had struggled, slumping to 85-5 in the 15th over. However, veteran Stefanie Taylor's unbeaten 47 off just 19 balls, featuring three sixes and four fours, propelled them to a competitive 153-6. Tight bowling from spinners Hayley Matthews and Afy Fletcher, who combined for five wickets for 35 runs, had initially slowed Scotland's progress.

Despite Carter's spirited 59 and a strong opening partnership with Katherine Fraser that yielded 51 runs in the first five overs, Scotland were ultimately bowled out for 146. This victory marks the West Indies' second win in Group B, following their opening defeat to defending champions New Zealand.