West Indies Women continued their dominant run in Pakistan, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead in their Twenty20 Internationals series after a thrilling two-run victory over hosts Pakistan Women on Tuesday.
Captain Hayley Matthews once again emerged as the star performer, delivering a Player-of-the-Match performance with a crucial innings and key wickets to seal the win for her team.
Matthews, the 26-year-old Barbadian all-rounder, showcased her batting prowess with a top score of 68 in a gritty 49-ball innings. Her crucial partnership of 89 runs with deputy Shemaine Campbelle laid the foundation for West Indies Women’s total of 132 for five after they were put in to bat.
A late collapse in their batting line-up
Despite a strong start, West Indies Women faced a late collapse in their batting line-up, managing just 25 runs from the final 26 balls after Matthews’ dismissal. Campbelle contributed 31 runs, but the rest of the batting order failed to provide substantial support.
In response, Pakistan Women mounted a spirited chase, with opener Sidra Ameen leading the charge with a valiant 63 off 58 balls. However, Matthews’ brilliance with the ball turned the tide in West Indies’ favor, as she claimed two crucial wickets in the final overs to derail Pakistan’s chase.
Pacer Aaliyah Alleyne and leg-spinner Afy Fletcher also played crucial roles, maintaining their composure under pressure to restrict Pakistan’s scoring in the tense closing stages of the match.
West Indies Women extended their winning streak on the tour to six matches
With this victory, West Indies Women extended their winning streak on the tour to six matches, following their triumph in the preceding ICC Women’s Championship One-Day Internationals.
The thrilling encounter in Karachi highlighted the resilience and determination of both teams, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the series. With two matches remaining, West Indies Women are poised to maintain their dominance and secure a series sweep against Pakistan.
The remaining two T20Is of the five-match series promise more thrilling cricket action, as West Indies Women aim to continue their impressive form and cement their status as a formidable force in women’s cricket.
