West Indies registered a nail-biting win against Ireland in Lahore as they opened their account in the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier yesterday. Chasing a target of 182 runs in 33 overs, Ireland came close but fell short by just six runs, getting bowled out for 175 in 32.2 overs.
Windies skipper Hayley Matthews was named Player of the Match for her all-round brilliance. West Indies had started the tournament with a surprising defeat against Scotland, but Matthews’ outstanding effort with the bat made headlines. Despite the team losing that match by 11 runs, she was still awarded Player of the Match.
While chasing a target of 245, Matthews remained unbeaten on 114* (113) but did not receive enough support from her teammates to take the side over the line. Remarkably, she battled through severe cramps and had to retire hurt twice—once on 95 and again on 99—but returned to the crease each time and ultimately remained not out.
Hayley Matthews is currently the highest run-scorer with 137 runs and the highest wicket-taker with eight wickets in this ongoing tournament
Her efforts with the bat were complemented by her performance with the ball, where she picked up four wickets in that game. In yesterday’s clash against Ireland, Matthews contributed 23 runs off 18 balls at a strike rate of 127.77 and once again starred with the ball, taking four wickets for 24 runs in 6.2 overs.
She is setting a perfect example of leadership, leading the side from the front. When Ireland needed just eight runs in the final over with only one wicket in hand, Matthews took responsibility and delivered under pressure by dismissing Arlene Kelly (18 off 18) to seal the win.
Matthews has been in sublime form so far in the tournament and is playing a pivotal role for her team. She will now look to carry this momentum forward as West Indies prepare to face in-form Pakistan on 14 April in Lahore.
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