CRICKET WEST INDIES

The West Indies Cricket Board has congratulated the West Indies Women's Team for their outstanding performances on the recent tour of South Africa.

The Windies Women were the best team at the International Cricket Council's Challenge Tournament, which was played in Potchefstroom, South Africa. They won the T20 Trophy and reached the final of the 50 Over League, but lost to South Africa.

That was their only defeat on tour.

Speaking on Sunday, Dr Julian Hunte, President of the WICB, showered the team with praise and also urged them to reach for higher heights in coming years.

"I offer heartfelt congratulations to the West Indies Women's Team and the support staff for what was an outstanding showing in South Africa. Winning is always a difficult prospect and to perform so brilliantly, on foreign soil, is worthy of the highest praise. We, the people of the West Indies and all those who love West Indies cricket are very proud of you," Dr Hunte said, in a message to Captain Merissa Aguilera.

"I urge you to continue the great work you have started. Last year you defeated England at home, earlier this year you upset the form book and reached the semi-finals of the ICC World T20 also here in the Caribbean. Now you have gone one better and won a major international title away from home."

Dr Hunte added: "I urge all of you to keep up the great work and strive for even more improvement. I believe you have the ability to be ICC World Cup champions one day. We at the WICB will continue to offer all the support required to see women's cricket improve and grow across the length and breadth of the Caribbean."

During the ICC Challenge, the Windies Women took home all the major individual awards. Stafanie Taylor was the leading batter and all rounder in the 50 Overs, while Stacy-Ann King was the top all rounder in the T20s.

The Windies are due to return home on Tuesday afternoon.