Matthews Dominates with the Bat
While Matthews was the clear aggressor, she found valuable support from Realeanna Grimmond, who contributed a steady 53 off 70 balls. The partnership between the two ensured that the West Indies maintained a healthy scoring rate throughout the middle overs. For Zimbabwe, Francisca Chipare was the standout bowler, returning figures of 2/57 from her 10 overs, but the home side struggled to contain the flow of runs as Matthews dictated terms.
Zimbabwe Chase Falters Under Pressure
Chasing a daunting target of 300 for victory, Zimbabwe faced an uphill battle from the start. The West Indies bowling attack struck early, removing two wickets in the opening exchanges to put the hosts on the back foot. The momentum shifted decisively in the sixth over when Sharne Mayers fell with the score at 34, leaving Zimbabwe in a precarious position from which they never fully recovered.
Despite the early collapse, Modester Mupachikwa offered significant resistance, anchoring the innings with a composed 86 off 106 balls. She received some support from Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, but the required run rate proved too steep as the West Indies bowlers maintained consistent pressure. Aaliyah Alleyne and Ashmini Munisar were instrumental in restricting the Zimbabwean lineup, ensuring the wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. Ultimately, Zimbabwe was bowled out for 200, handing the West Indies a convincing win to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
