What a rollicking start to the 12th edition of cricket’s oldest tournament. hosts New Zealand almost pulled off a sensational chase against the West Indies in the opener of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022 on Friday.
With Hayley Matthews smashed a brilliant century to help West Indies to a thrilling three-run victory over New Zealand in the opening match of the 12th ICC Women’s World Cup 2022 at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.
Deandra Dottin picked up two wickets in the last over when the hosts needed only 6 runs to win to snatch a memorable win for her side.
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Sophie Devine slammed a superb century but her dismissal put West Indies on top.
Katey Martin and Jess Kerr brought them back in the contest only to falter in the final over. West Indies put on 259 for 9 batting first. Hayley Matthews was the star of the show for the West Indies.
The all-rounder, who was moved up the order to open the batting in place of Rashada Williams, took the game to the tournament hosts from the start and pummelled 16 fours and a booming six in her 128-ball 119.
The 23-year-old Barbadian returned to take two for 41 with her off-spin and set back New Zealand in their attempt to chase down 260 runs for victory For New Zealand, Lea Tahuhu picked up three wickets but gave away 59 runs.
Matthews said her coach, Courtney Walsh, had called her on Thursday and told her she would be opening in place of Williams, who was ruled out of the match by concussion protocols.
“Just pretty happy that I could get some runs up top,” said Matthews. “Definitely my best score, definitely up there with one of the best innings.”
