• England registered a clean sweep over West Indies in the three-match T20I series.

  • Hayley Matthews' outstanding all-round performance went in vain.

England whitewash West Indies despite Hayley Matthews’ heroics in 3rd T20I
Heather Knight (PC: X)

England completed a dominant 3-0 clean sweep in the T20 International (T20I) series against West Indies, securing a victory in the third and final match at the County Ground in Chelmsford. Despite a brilliant all-round performance from West Indies captain Hayley Matthews, England’s consistent bowling attack ultimately proved too strong.

Heather Knight guides England to a competitive total

After winning the toss, West Indies elected to bowl first. England posted a competitive total of 144/5 in their 20 overs, anchored by a superb innings from Heather Knight. The former captain batted resiliently, scoring an unbeaten 66 runs off just 47 balls, featuring 7 fours and a six. She was ably supported by Natalie Sciver, who contributed 37 runs off 40 deliveries, and Amy Jones, who added a quick 22 off 17 balls. West Indies’ bowling effort was led by Matthews, who was exceptional with figures of 3 wickets for 32 runs from her four overs. Jahzara Claxton also impressed, taking a wicket for just 15 runs.

West Indies falls short by 17 runs

Chasing 145 for victory, West Indies Women’s innings was largely a one-woman show from their captain. Despite losing opener Qiana Joseph for a golden duck to Lauren Bell on the very first ball, Matthews launched a courageous assault, scoring a magnificent 71 runs off 54 balls, including 11 fours and a six. However, a lack of substantial support from the other end hampered the West Indies’ chase. While Realeanna Grimmond (15) and Shabika Gajnabi (14) offered brief resistance, the English bowlers maintained tight control.

England’s bowling attack was clinical, with all four main bowlers claiming two wickets each. Lauren Bell led the way with figures of 2/11 from her 4 overs, while Emily Arlott, Charlotte Dean and Linsey Smith also chipped in with two wickets apiece, effectively stifling the West Indies’ scoring opportunities. The consistent pressure from England’s bowlers meant that despite Matthews’ valiant efforts, West Indies could only reach 127/8 in their 20 overs.

Also READ: Latest ICC Women’s Rankings

Matthews’ outstanding all-round performance (71 runs and 3 wickets) earned her the Player of the Match award, a bittersweet recognition given her side’s defeat. England’s victory secured a decisive 3-0 series whitewash, following their 8-wicket win in the first T20I and 9-wicket win in the second.

The focus now shifts to the longer format, as both teams prepare for the 1st ODI, scheduled for Friday, May 30, at the County Ground, where West Indies will look to bounce back.

Also READ: Cricket South announces women’s squad for the West Indies’ white-ball tour

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Anirudh is the Head of Content at CricketTimes.com. He is a seasoned journalist and content writer with 12 years of experience in the field of cricket. With over 9,000 published articles under his belt, Anirudh brings a creative and strategic approach to his work, always striving to deliver content that resonates with audiences. A die-hard sports fan who loves playing, watching and talking about cricket. Cricket is his Religion & 'Sachin Tendulkar' his GOD. His motto of life is Eat, Sleep, Cricket, REPEAT!! You can write to him at anirudh@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.