In a moment that redefined the cricketing narrative of an entire nation, Scotland Women’s National Team has been awarded the ICC Associate Member Women’s Team Performance of the Year for their historic qualification to the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, their first-ever appearance on the global stage.
The announcement followed Scotland’s dominant campaign at the semi-final of the 2024 T20 World Cup Qualifier in Abu Dhabi, culminating in a memorable 8-wicket victory. The performance was led by captain Kathryn Bryce, who scored 35 runs and picked up four wickets, and Megan McColl, whose sublime half-century (50 runs) anchored Scotland’s chase and stamped their authority on world cricket.
In a video released by the ICC, members of the Scottish squad reflected on the journey that led them to their defining moment. All signs, as it turned out, had pointed toward 2024 being the breakthrough. “Everyone felt it and everyone saw it- that this was the year,” said Megan McColl. “It was in Abu Dhabi where it kind of clicked for us.”
The team’s unity, vision, and years of perseverance all came together under the Middle Eastern skies. With disciplined bowling and commanding batting, Scotland turned the Qualifier tournament into a coming-of-age story for the team and women’s cricket in the country. The path to qualification was not just about one match, it was about overcoming history.
Scotland’s semi-final victory over Ireland was the true turning point, as acknowledged by skipper Kathryn Bryce, “Going back to the semi-final against Ireland, that was the big one,” she said.
With that win, Scotland not only booked their World Cup berth but also announced their arrival as serious contenders among associate nations. This achievement means more than just a qualification.
For Sarah Bryce, it represents a seismic shift in what young girls in Scotland can dare to dream. “It’s an incredible moment- something we’ll all remember,” said Sarah. “It’s incredibly special. We made history. It’s something we’ve dreamed of for a long time, and I think it sends a huge message to girls in Scotland- about the possibilities they now have.”
The award by the ICC validates not just the performance, but also the spirit, sacrifice, and steady rise of a team that has flown under the radar for far too long. Scotland’s success story is a celebration of associate cricket, grassroots growth, and breaking glass ceilings.
