The West Indies Women’s cricket team showcased their resilience and skill as they clinched a dramatic T20I series victory over the South African Proteas women, winning the series 2-1. The gripping final match held at the Three Ws Oval in Barbados was decided by a superb chase orchestrated by skipper Hayley Matthews.
Stellar performance by Matthews steers Windies to victory
In a match brimming with intense action, it was Hayley Matthews who emerged as the standout performer. The Windies captain led from the front with a brilliant 65-run knock off just 50 balls. Her innings, peppered with nine fours and a six, was pivotal in the six-wicket win that came with nine balls to spare.
Matthews, who was awarded both Player of the Match and Player of the Series, commended her team’s remarkable comeback from a 1-0 deficit in the series. This triumph marked the first time in 12 years that the West Indies women had defeated South Africa in a bilateral T20I series on home soil.
Miane Smit shines as a promising talent for South Africa
While the Proteas women fell short in the series decider, there was a silver lining in the form of 20-year-old Miane Smit. In just her third T20I, Smit’s unbeaten half-century (59* off 38 balls) was crucial in helping South Africa post a competitive total of 147/6. Her impressive innings included seven boundaries and a six, showcasing her potential as a future star for South African cricket.
“I think I played a bit smarter today,” Smit reflected, acknowledging her strategic innings amidst her team’s struggles.
Windies recover from early wickets to seal the series
Set a target of 148, the West Indies faced an early setback, losing both openers quickly. However, Matthews forged a vital 82-run partnership with Shemaine Campbelle, who contributed an aggressive 42 off 38 balls. Campbelle’s crucial support, followed by Chinelle Henry’s quickfire 20*, brought the hosts to the doorstep of victory.
Bowlers like Karishma Ramharack and Afy Fletcher were instrumental, applying pressure on the Proteas with key breakthroughs, but it was Matthews’ authoritative batting that ultimately turned the game.
Proteas reflect on lessons learned
Despite the series loss, Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt praised the emergence of new talent and the team’s overall performance on tour, highlighting Smit’s contributions. “We found some good young talent… Hayley played so well, it was difficult to get her out,” Wolvaardt commented post-match.
As the summer series concludes, the West Indies’ hard-fought victory and the Proteas’ emerging talent set an exciting stage for future encounters between these competitive teams.
