Cricket

Jahzara Claxton shines as West Indies Women cruise to series-opening win

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 3, 2026, 19:30 IST

Jahzara Claxton delivered a dominant all-round performance to lead West Indies Women to an eight-wicket victory over Zimbabwe Women in the first T20I at Harare, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Jahzara Claxton shines as West Indies Women cruise to series-opening win

Dominant bowling sets the tone in Harare

West Indies Women made a commanding start to their tour of Zimbabwe, securing a clinical eight-wicket victory in the first T20I at the Takashinga Sports Club. After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the visitors dismantled the Zimbabwe batting lineup, restricting the hosts to a modest total of 97/9 from their allotted 20 overs.

The West Indies bowling attack maintained consistent pressure throughout the first innings. Karishma Ramharack was the standout performer with the ball, claiming impressive figures of 3/17 from her four overs. She was well-supported by Player of the Match Jahzara Claxton, who chipped in with a vital 2/16 from her three-over spell. Alongside contributions from Afy Fletcher, the West Indies bowlers ensured that Zimbabwe never found the momentum required to build a competitive score.

For Zimbabwe, Beloved Biza top-scored with 21 off 24 balls, while Modester Mupachikwa added 20 from 33 deliveries. Despite their efforts, the lack of substantial partnerships meant the hosts struggled to accelerate against a disciplined West Indies unit.

Claxton anchors successful chase

Chasing a target of 98, West Indies Women encountered an early setback with the loss of an early wicket. The dismissal of Eboni Brathwaite at 38 in the 4.1 overs served as a brief turning point, but the visitors remained composed as they navigated the small target.

Realeanna Grimmond led the charge with a fluent 34 off 25 balls, providing the necessary impetus to keep the required run rate well under control. Jahzara Claxton, fresh from her impactful bowling display, proved her worth with the bat as well. She anchored the chase with a steady 31 off 37 balls, ensuring there were no further alarms for the batting side.

The West Indies reached their target with ease, finishing on 98/2. The eight-wicket win gives the visitors a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. With the series opener secured, West Indies Women will look to carry this momentum into the remainder of the tour, while Zimbabwe will be eager to find answers to the visitors' disciplined all-round performance in the upcoming matches.