In the opening clash of the three-match WODI series between visiting Bangladesh and hosts West Indies, the visitors suffered a heavy nine-wicket defeat at Warner Park, Basseterre in St Kitts on Monday.
The hosts won the toss and elected to field inviting Bangladesh to bat first. Bangladesh Women faced an early setback with the dismissal of opener Fargana Hoque Pinky for just 10. However, Murshida Khatun and Sharmin Akter Supta steadied the innings scoring 40 and 42 runs respectively. Despite their contributions, the visitors struggled to accelerate as the West Indies bowlers maintained disciplined lines and lengths throughout.
While Sobhana Mostary (35) and Shorna Akter (29) showed promise, none of the middle-order batters could capitalize on their starts. The late-middle order failed to make a meaningful contribution leaving Bangladesh with a modest total of 198 for nine in their allotted 50 overs.
Deandra Dottin was the standout bowler for the West Indies claiming three wickets. Aaliyah Alleyne and Hayley Matthews picked up two wickets each, while Afy Fletcher chipped in with one.
In response, West Indies Women chased down the target with ease reaching 202 for one in just 31.4 overs. Captain Hayley Matthews led from the front with a brilliant unbeaten century showcasing her class and dominance at the crease. Matthews forged a commanding 163-run opening partnership with Qiana Joseph, who contributed a fluent 70 before being dismissed. Matthews remained unbeaten on 104 to guide her side to a comprehensive victory.
Rabeya Khan was the lone wicket-taker for Bangladesh dismissing Joseph.
Hayley Matthews was named the Player of the Match for her stellar all-round performance and exemplary leadership.
This emphatic win gives West Indies Women a 1-0 lead in the series setting a positive tone for the remaining fixtures scheduled for January 22 and 25. Bangladesh Women will need to reassess their strategy and regroup to bounce back in the series.
