Majestic Matthews seals series

HARARE, Zimbabwe (CMC):

A majestic century from captain Hayley Matthews and a composed supporting knock from Shemaine Campbelle powered West Indies Women to a commanding 91-run victory over Zimbabwe Women in the third and deciding Women’s One-Day International at the Harare Sports Club yesterday.

The victory secured a 2-1 series triumph for the visitors, who bounced back emphatically after suffering a surprise defeat in the second match.

Matthews was the undisputed star of the contest, earning Player of the Match honours for her blistering 118 off 112 balls.

The West Indies skipper was in imperious form, anchoring the innings after the early loss of Realeanna Grimmond for three.

She found an able ally in Campbelle, who produced a superb knock of 96.

The pair came together with West Indies on 38 for one and proceeded to dismantle the Zimbabwe bowling attack, adding 160 runs for the second wicket.

Their partnership laid the foundation for a daunting total. Matthews’ innings was a masterclass in pacing, combining sound defence with aggressive stroke play as she struck 18 fours and a six before eventually being dismissed by Nomvelo Sibanda.

Campbelle, who fell agonisingly short of a century when she was caught for 96, was equally impressive, smashing 13 fours.

Sibanda was the pick of the Zimbabwe bowlers with figures of 2-42, while Beloved Biza also claimed two wickets.

A late flourish from Jannillea Glasgow (26 not out) and Jahzara Claxton (11 not out) helped West Indies Women finish on a formidable 271-5 from their allotted 50 overs.

In reply, Zimbabwe Women were never allowed to settle as the West Indies bowlers applied relentless pressure from the outset, reducing the hosts to a precarious nine for two with the dismissals of Modester Mupachikwa for four and Kelis Ndhlovu for two.

Captain Josephine Nkomo fought a lone battle, compiling an unbeaten 74. However, she received little support from her teammates as wickets fell at regular intervals. Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano was the only other batter to offer significant resistance with 25.

The West Indies bowling attack proved too disciplined and potent for the Zimbabwe line-up. Ashmini Munisar was the chief destroyer, claiming 2-32 from her 10 overs.

She was well supported by Aaliyah Alleyne (2-39), Glasgow (2-37), Afy Fletcher (1-32) and Zaida James (1-15).

The Zimbabwe innings eventually folded for 180 in 47.3 overs, handing West Indies a comprehensive victory and the series trophy.