This post was originally published on All Out Cricket on December 2nd, 2015.
In only their second global tournament, Scotland Women have reached the semi-final of the World T20 Qualifier; they come up against Ireland in their bid to make the final. Before the tournament, QTV Sports caught up with Wildcats skipper Abbi Aitken. Main picture credit: ICC
Matches between Scotland and Ireland are eagerly anticipated and closely contested, and when a place in a World Cup is up for the grabs the spectacle can be that bit more exhilarating and breathless. This evening (6.45am GMT, Thursday morning) it will be the girls renewing the auld rivalry with Abbi Aitken’s Scottish Wildcats taking on the higher-ranked and more experienced Irish side, led by Isobel Joyce.
Ireland will start as favourites having dominated their group, they’ll also be aided by their proven pedigree in qualifying for global events. The Wildcats meanwhile have an opportunity to achieve a significant milestone in their ambition to be a major force in the women’s game, and mirror the recent success of the boys in blue. With the stakes this high, and local bragging rights at stake, a compelling, exciting game is nigh on inevitable. And for Abbi, fresh from celebrating 100 caps for her country, it would be fulfilment of a dream.