LEEDS, England (CMC) — In a pulsating encounter during the ICC Women’s Twenty20 World Cup, West Indies held their nerve to secure a hard-fought victory over a spirited Scottish side, with all-rounder Chinelle Henry revealing the team’s resolve to overcome injury worries and a fiery opposition.

Speaking after the match, Henry, who was a late inclusion after a warm-up game injury, praised veteran Stafanie Taylor for a match-defining knock that propelled the Windies to a competitive total.

“The way Stafanie played today was really amazing,” Henry stated. “She is always a class act, a class performer, and tonight we saw that. She finished that innings perfectly for us.”

The West Indies posted a total that Henry admitted was slightly below their initial target. “We discussed that the wicket was a bit slow up front, so we thought maybe 160 would have been par. The idea was to get as many as possible but it proved to be enough to bring us over the line.”

Scotland came out firing in the chase, putting the Windies bowling attack under immediate pressure. Henry acknowledged the tense moments, noting the team’s strategy was to remain calm during the power play.

“We knew everyone would come hard in the first six overs. It wasn’t the best start with the ball but as a unit, we finished the job,” she said.

The match saw a few jitters in the field and a tense exchange involving the emotional Deandra Dottin. Henry explained the team’s supportive approach.

“It was just about the nerves. Deandra is passionate and wears her heart on her sleeve. The plan wasn’t going her way, so Hayley and I just reminded her that she is one of the best death bowlers we have.”

Addressing concerns over a fielding injury to Shemaine Campbell, Henry downplayed the severity. “It was just a precaution, nothing major,” she assured.

Henry also confirmed her own fitness was a “team decision” made with the medical staff, stating she was fit enough to contribute.

Looking ahead, she emphasised the unpredictable nature of the tournament, which she believes is one of the most open in recent memory.

“This table is blown wide open. Nobody is here just to compete; everyone is fighting. We can’t take anyone lightly,” Henry said, turning focus to their next challenge. “Winning our first two games puts us in a good spot. We just have to go back to the drawing board, assess those first six overs, and keep trusting our skills.”

With two wins from as many matches, the West Indies are building momentum. But Henry insists the focus remains on a game-by-game approach to secure a semi-final berth.