The cricketing arena at the National Stadium set the stage for an enthralling encounter as Pakistan squared off against the visiting West Indies in the inaugural match of the West Indies Women’s tour of Pakistan 2024.
Hayley Matthews smashes her 5th ODI ton
Opting to bat first upon winning the toss, West Indies demonstrated their prowess with the bat, laying a solid foundation for their innings. Led by the explosive batting display of Hayley Matthews, who blazed her way to a remarkable 140 runs off 150 deliveries, the visitors amassed a challenging total of 269/8 in their allotted 50 overs. Matthews received valuable support from her teammates, notably Shemaine Campbelle, who contributed a steady 45 runs, and Chinelle Henry, who chipped in with a brisk 23 runs.
Captain leading from the front 💪
1️⃣4️⃣0️⃣* 🌴🏏 @MyNameIs_Hayley #PAKWvWIW | #MaroonWarriors pic.twitter.com/fZVtMNRQSw— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) April 18, 2024
Also READ: Twitter reactions – Chamari Athapaththu’s brilliant 195 helps Sri Lanka claim highest successful run chase in Women’s ODI history
West Indies restricts Pakistan for 156
In pursuit of the daunting target, Pakistan batters faced an uphill battle against the disciplined West Indies bowling attack. Despite spirited efforts from Muneeba Ali (22), Najiha Alvi (20) and Tuba Hussain (25), the home team struggled to gain momentum and lost wickets at regular intervals. As the pressure mounted, the home team eventually folded at 156 runs in 35.5 overs.
Credit was due to the West Indies bowlers, who executed their plans meticulously to stifle Pakistan’s batting lineup. Hayley Matthews showcased her all-round brilliance by wreaking havoc with the ball as well, claiming three crucial wickets for a mere 17 runs. Afy Fletcher and Zaida James also made significant inroads into the opposition batting order, accounting for two wickets each.
With a resounding victory by a margin of 113 runs, West Indies stamped their authority early in the series, signaling their intent for a successful campaign on Pakistani soil.
West Indies defeated Pakistan by 113 runs 🏏
Scorecard: https://t.co/r3d20eSKxV#women #cricket #PAKvsWI #HayleyMatthews #CricketTwitter #WomenCricket pic.twitter.com/IXNjso4nop
— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) April 18, 2024
Hayley Matthews deservedly earned the accolade of Player of the Match for her stellar performance.
As the series progresses, both teams will aim to fine-tune their strategies and showcase their best cricket in the upcoming matches. The action continues with the next fixture scheduled to take place on Sunday (April 21) at the same venue.
