Saint Lucians make their mark at West Indies women’s camp

As the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England looms on the horizon, the West Indies women’s cricket team is leaving no stone unturned in their preparations. Twenty senior players are currently engaged in an intensive eight-week training camp in Antigua and Barbuda, with three Saint Lucians playing pivotal roles—players Qiana Joseph and Zaida James, and coach Dalton Polius. The camp, which commenced on October 20, has been marked by rigorous practice sessions and a renewed focus on technical improvements. Polius, who has been working closely with the team’s batters under head coach Shane Deitz, expressed his satisfaction with the progress made so far. He highlighted the players’ dedication to refining their skills, particularly in batting, bowling, and fielding. Polius also praised the rapid development of Zaida James, noting her increased confidence and technical prowess. Similarly, Qiana Joseph, who has emerged as a dynamic opening batter, has set ambitious goals for the upcoming year, driven by personal motivation and a desire to honor the memory of a close friend. The West Indies women’s team faces a packed schedule in 2026, including six international tours and their first Test match in decades, making this camp a crucial step in their journey toward global success.