A valiant unbeaten century from captain Hayley Matthews was not enough to prevent West Indies Women from slipping to an 11-run defeat at the hands of Scotland Women in their opening ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier earlier today.
Chasing 245 for victory at the Lahore City Cricket Association Ground in Pakistan, the West Indies Women were dismissed for 233 in 46.2 overs despite a sensational knock of 114 not out from Matthews, who was forced to retire hurt on 95 before returning to complete her century. The Barbadian all-rounder was deservedly named Player of the Match for her all-round effort, having also taken 4-56 with the ball.
Batting first, Scotland posted a competitive 244 all out in 45 overs, anchored by a brisk 55 from wicketkeeper Sarah Bryce and a crucial 45 from Megan McColl. Matthews triggered a mid-innings collapse with the key wickets of Abbi Aitken-Drummond, Darcey Carter and Kathryn Bryce, reducing Scotland to 69 for three by the 16th over. Chinelle Henry chipped in with two run-outs as the innings stuttered in the latter stages, though Scotland managed to bat deep.
In response, Matthews led from the front, combining with Zaida James (45) to steady the chase after an early wicket. The West Indies appeared in control at 120 for two, but Scotland kept chipping away, and Matthews’ temporary retirement at 95 added to the mounting tension. Cherry-Ann Fraser fell for a duck to Katherine Fraser, and when Aaliyah Alleyne was trapped lbw by Abtaha Maqsood for 17, the Windies fell agonisingly short, bowled out with just 12 runs needed for victory.
Summarised Scores
Scotland 244 all out in 45.0 overs (Sarah Bryce 55, Megan McColl 45; Hayley Matthews 4-56, Aaliyah Alleyne 2-31)
West Indies 233 all out in 46.2 overs (Hayley Matthews 114 not out, Zaida James 45; Katherin Fraser 3-50, Chloe Abel 2-31)
Result: Scotland win by 11 runs
