West Indies captain Hayley Matthews put on a virtuoso
performance to lead her team to a commanding nine-wicket victory over Ireland
Women in the opening ODI at Bready Cricket Club. Her historic display set
multiple milestones, making light work of what initially appeared to be a
challenging total.
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| Image Credits: Cricinfo |
After winning the toss and electing to field, the West
Indies restricted Ireland to 269 all out. Matthews played a crucial role with
the ball, picking up critical middle-order wickets to register all-round
figures of 3 for 52. However, her true masterclass unfolded during the second
innings.
Chasing 270, Matthews and opening partner Realeanna Grimmond
took immediate control of the game. Together, they stitched a monumental
258-run partnership—the highest-ever for any wicket for the West Indies in
Women's ODIs. Grimmond anchored beautifully for her 91, but it was Matthews who
completely dismantled the Irish bowling unit.
The skipper paced her innings perfectly, bringing up an extraordinary, career-best 159* off just 123 deliveries, loaded with 24 boundaries and two sixes. Reaching the target in just 38.4 overs, Matthews’ unbeaten epic secured the West Indies' highest successful run chase in their ODI history with 68 balls to spare.
