Deandra Dottin reverses international retirement ahead of Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

Deandra Dottin. (Photo Source: Mark Tantrum-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

In a remarkable and unforeseen twist for West Indian cricket, seasoned all-rounder Deandra Dottin has chosen to arise from the ashes of retirement. This development comes just in time for the ninth edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in Bangladesh later this year.

Dottin’s retirement announcement a couple of years ago was unexpected, prompted by apprehensions regarding a team environment she perceived as unconducive to her growth as a cricketer and her ability to rekindle her passion for the game.

In a letter to the Cricket West Indies, Dottin, who has represented the West Indies in 143 ODIs and 127 T20Is, expressed that representing her nation had always been a matter of immense prestige and enthusiasm. After an extended period of self-reflection and thorough discussions with various stakeholders within Cricket West Indies, including President, Dr. Kishore Shallow, she noted she was delighted to announce her eagerness to return to the game she cherishes the most. She also conveyed her readiness to contribute to the team across all formats without further ado.

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“Representing West Indies in international cricket has always been a matter of great pride and passion for me. After a period of reflection and thoughtful dialogue with various parties within Cricket West Indies, including Cricket West Indies President, Dr. Kishore Shallow, I am pleased to inform you that I am eager to return to the game that I love, and contribute my utmost to the West Indies women’s team across all formats, with immediate effect,” wrote Dottin in a letter to the CWI, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

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In her correspondence, she further conveyed her assurance that her extensive acumen, refined wisdom, and honed aptitude would significantly benefit the team, as they have in previous instances. She expressed a resolute commitment to dedicating her utmost efforts to enhance the team’s performance on the international stage. Additionally, she voiced her fervent enthusiasm for mentoring emerging talents and advancing the overall growth of women’s cricket in her region.

“I am confident that my experience, maturity, and skills will add value to the team as it has done in the past, and I am prepared to furnish my best efforts in every match and training session to ensure the team’s winning trajectory in international cricket. Moreover, I am enthusiastic about mentoring younger players and contributing to the overall development of women’s cricket in our region,” added Dottin.

Dottin, one of the most illustrious players in West Indian history, holds the record for the fastest century in women’s T20Is. Interestingly, this milestone was achieved during the 2010 edition of the tournament, which was hosted in the Caribbean.