West Indies Women began their Ireland Tri-Nation Women’s T20I Series campaign with a commanding 8-wicket victory over Ireland Women in the opening match played in Dublin on Wednesday.
Chasing a modest target of 104 runs, West Indies comfortably reached 104/2 in just 11.3 overs with 51 balls remaining.
Captain Hayley Matthews delivered a match-winning all-round performance, remaining unbeaten on 82 runs off 44 balls, smashing 11 fours and 3 sixes. She was named Player of the Match for her brilliant knock, along with her bowling figures of 1/20 and three catches in the field.
Earlier, Ireland Women were bowled out for 103 runs in 17 overs after struggling against the disciplined West Indies bowling attack.
Ireland captain Orla Prendergast top-scored with 25 runs, while Leah Paul contributed 21 runs. However, the hosts failed to build any major partnerships.
For West Indies, Qiana Joseph impressed with the ball by taking 3 wickets for 8 runs, while Zaida James and Jahzara Claxton claimed two wickets each.
During the chase, West Indies lost Deandra Dottin and Qiana Joseph early, but Hayley Matthews and Stafanie Taylor ensured there were no further setbacks, guiding their side to a comfortable win.
Ava Canning was the only successful bowler for Ireland, taking 2 wickets for 16 runs.
