Dublin, May 29 (H.S.): Captain Hayley Matthews produced a sensational batting display as West Indies thrashed Ireland by eight wickets in the opening match of the Women’s T20 Tri-Series late on Thursday night. In the tournament featuring Pakistan as the third team, West Indies first bundled out Ireland for just 103 runs before chasing down the target in only 11.3 overs.

After winning the toss and electing to bowl first, West Indies put Ireland under pressure from the very beginning. Zaida James dismissed both Irish openers in successive overs, while Jahzara Claxton removed Rebecca Stokell as Ireland slumped to 23/3 inside the powerplay.

Captain Orla Prendergast and Leah Paul then attempted to rebuild the innings with a 44-run partnership for the fourth wicket. However, Hayley Matthews broke the stand in the 12th over by dismissing Prendergast. Ireland’s batting line-up collapsed thereafter, and the team was bowled out for 103 runs in 17 overs.

West Indies used as many as nine bowlers during the innings. Qiana Joseph emerged as the most successful bowler, claiming 3 wickets for just 8 runs in her two overs.

Chasing 104 for victory, West Indies suffered early setbacks as Ava Canning dismissed Deandra Dottin and Qiana Joseph. However, skipper Hayley Matthews then launched a fierce counterattack against the Irish bowlers.

Matthews completed her half-century in just 33 balls and continued her aggressive approach throughout the chase. She shared a 69-run partnership with Stafanie Taylor, who contributed 10 runs in a supporting role. Matthews remained unbeaten on 82 off 44 deliveries to guide her side to a comfortable victory.

West Indies will next face Pakistan in the tournament’s upcoming clash, scheduled to be played at the same venue within the next 24 hours.

Brief Scores:

Ireland: 103 all out in 17 overs

Orla Prendergast 25

Qiana Joseph 3/8

West Indies:** 104/2 in 11.3 overs

Hayley Matthews 82*

Ava Canning 2/16

West Indies won by 8 wickets.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar