In a stunning display of skill and determination, Hayley Matthews led the West Indies women’s cricket team to achieve the highest successful run chase in women’s T20 international history.
The West Indies emerged victorious, defeating Australia by seven wickets at the North Sydney Oval in Australia.
Opting to bowl first, the Windies women initially gained control, restricting Australia to 87 for four after 11 overs.
However, a resilient batting performance by Phoebe Litchfield and Ellyse Perry, scoring 52 and 70 respectively, propelled the Aussies to a formidable total of 212 for six in their allotted 20 overs.
Hayley Matthews, the Windies captain, stood out as the pick of the bowlers, securing three wickets for 36 runs from her four overs, with valuable support from Shamilia Connell (two for 35) and Chinelle Henry (1 for 23).
In pursuit of the target, the Windies lost an early wicket, bringing Matthews and Stafanie Taylor together at the crease. The duo displayed exceptional synergy, amassing 174 runs before Taylor’s departure in the 17th over, with the score at 185 for two. Taylor contributed a valuable 59 from 41 deliveries, including 11 fours.
Matthews, on the other hand, showcased an extraordinary performance, reaching her century in just 53 balls. With 28 runs needed off 18 deliveries, Matthews struck crucial boundaries to maintain the chase. Her spectacular innings of 132 runs from 64 balls featured an impressive 20 fours and five sixes.
Matthews’ dismissal in the 19th over left the Windies with a tense final over, requiring nine runs from seven balls. Shemaine Campbell and Chinelle Henry held their nerve, securing the win with one ball to spare.
This historic victory surpassed the previous highest successful chase in women’s T20s, achieved by England against India in 2018 when they chased down 199.
The series decider is scheduled to take place in Brisbane on Thursday, October 5.