Cricket Scotland has announced that Scotland Women will conclude their preparations for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup with a Tri-Series against Bangladesh and the Netherlands at The Grange in Edinburgh during May and June.
The tournament marks a significant moment for the side, as it will be their first home fixtures since September 2022. During their time away, Scotland have strengthened their standing in international cricket, qualifying for two consecutive ICC Women’s T20 World Cups and recording notable wins over Full Member teams such as West Indies, Zimbabwe, and Ireland.
Homecoming Holds Special Meaning
For captain Kathryn Bryce, the opportunity to lead her team in Edinburgh carries added personal significance, having missed the 2022 home series due to illness.
“I’m incredibly excited for this opportunity for us to play in my hometown of Edinburgh. The last time we played there was in 2022, which feels so long ago, and I actually contracted Covid-19 at the time so ended up missing out on the series. This is going to be the first time that I’ve played for Scotland in Edinburgh in my career, so it’s incredibly exciting.
“There’s a monumental few months coming up, given we’re then playing a T20 World Cup just down the road in England, so with the buzz and energy around that prospect hopefully we can get lots of supporters along to watch us. It’s been so rare for Scotland to play at home, it’s not often we get to have a big crowd that’s able to see us in person and be on our side.
“Bangladesh and Netherlands are both excellent sides, so the fixtures will be amazing preparation for us leading into the main event. I can’t wait to pull on the thistle here in Scotland and run out in front of the home fans.”
Squad Depth and Preparation Focus
Head coach Craig Wallace emphasised the progress made within the squad during their time away from home. Several players emerging from the U19 system have transitioned into the senior team, with a number now holding professional county contracts in England.
“Being able to host two excellent cricketing nations in Bangladesh and Netherlands here in Scotland is amazing, and a big step forward for our sport and the team. Given that we haven’t played at home since 2022, it’ll be probably quite an emotional occasion for everyone involved, given the hard work that the team have put in since then and the success they’ve subsequently had.
“These matches are hugely important as preparation for us ahead of the World Cup, and it’s great to be facing strong opposition that we are also relatively familiar with. The games will act as important steps for us as we build towards that first game against Ireland in the World Cup, and the standards will be high, so we are really excited and look forward to competing and entertaining in front of a large crowd.”
Final Build-Up to the World Cup
Following the Tri-Series in Edinburgh, Scotland will travel to England for two additional warm-up matches before beginning their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup campaign.
Their tournament opener is scheduled for June 13 against Ireland at Old Trafford, marking the start of a crucial phase in their international journey.
Tri-Series Schedule
- May 28: Scotland vs Netherlands
- May 30: Scotland vs Bangladesh
- May 31: Bangladesh vs Netherlands
- June 2: Scotland vs Bangladesh
- June 3: Scotland vs Netherlands
- June 4: Netherlands vs Bangladesh
