The West Indies Women kicked off their T20 series against Bangladesh Women in style, securing a commanding 8-wicket victory in the opening match at Warner Park, St Kitts. Chasing a modest target of 145, the hosts made light work of the Bangladeshi bowlers, thanks to a blistering unbeaten 51 from Deandra Dottin and a composed 60 by skipper Hayley Matthews. Bangladesh, opting to bat first, posted 144/3, with Nigar Sultana anchoring the innings with a well-crafted 53*. However, their total proved insufficient as the West Indies Women showcased their firepower, reaching the target with 19 balls to spare. The match set the tone for what promises to be an exciting series, with the hosts asserting their dominance early on.
Match Summary: West Indies Women vs Bangladesh Women 1st T20
The first T20 between West Indies Women and Bangladesh Women was a one-sided affair, with the hosts outclassing their opponents in all departments. Bangladesh’s decision to bat first seemed justified initially, but their inability to accelerate in the death overs cost them dearly. On the other hand, the West Indies Women’s batting lineup, led by Matthews and Dottin, delivered a masterclass in chasing, ensuring a comfortable win.
Bangladesh Women’s Innings: A Mixed Bag
Bangladesh Women’s innings was a tale of cautious batting and missed opportunities. Openers Dilara Akter and Sobhana Mostary started steadily but failed to convert their starts into substantial scores. Sharmin Akhter provided some stability with her 37, but it was Nigar Sultana’s unbeaten 53 that held the innings together. Despite her efforts, Bangladesh struggled to find boundaries in the final overs, managing only 144/3 in their 20 overs.
The West Indies bowlers, particularly Afy Fletcher and Cherry-Ann Fraser, kept things tight, with Fletcher picking up a crucial wicket. Deandra Dottin’s economical spell (4-0-13-0) further stifled Bangladesh’s momentum, setting the stage for the hosts’ dominant chase.
West Indies Women’s Chase: A Clinical Performance
The West Indies Women’s response was nothing short of spectacular. Openers Qiana Joseph and Hayley Matthews set the tone with a 63-run partnership, with Joseph’s quickfire 29 providing the early impetus. Matthews, the anchor, played a captain’s knock, remaining unbeaten on 60.
However, it was Deandra Dottin who stole the show. Her explosive 51* off just 22 balls, including seven sixes, dismantled the Bangladeshi attack. Dottin’s fearless hitting ensured the West Indies Women cruised to victory in just 16.5 overs, leaving the visitors with plenty to ponder.
Key Performances: West Indies Women vs Bangladesh Women 1st T20
- Hayley Matthews: The skipper led from the front with a composed 60*, guiding her team to victory.
- Deandra Dottin: Her unbeaten 51 off 22 balls was a masterclass in power-hitting.
- Nigar Sultana: The lone warrior for Bangladesh, her 53* was a bright spot in an otherwise underwhelming innings.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
The West Indies Women will look to carry this momentum into the next game, while Bangladesh Women must regroup and address their batting and bowling shortcomings. With the series still alive, the visitors have a chance to bounce back, but they’ll need a much-improved performance to challenge the dominant hosts.
The West Indies Women vs Bangladesh Women 1st T20 was a showcase of the hosts’ dominance, with both bat and ball. While Bangladesh showed glimpses of promise, they were outplayed by a superior West Indies side. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how both teams adapt and strategize for the upcoming clashes.