West Indies pulled off a stunning victory against England in the T20 World Cup, knocking one of the tournament favorites out and securing a semi-final spot. Chasing 142, West Indies reached 144 for 4, powered by half-centuries from Hayley Matthews and Qiana Joseph. This win broke a 13-match losing streak against England, marking West Indies’ first victory over them since 2018. They topped Group B and will face New Zealand in the semi-finals, marking their first semi-final appearance since 2018.
Key Contributions from Matthews and Joseph
Despite missing veteran Stafanie Taylor due to injury, West Indies delivered a remarkable performance. Matthews, playing in her 100th T20I, scored 50, while Joseph, with a career-best 52, formed a crucial 102-run opening stand. This was West Indies’ sixth successful chase of a 140-plus total and their second since their record 213-run chase against Australia in December 2023.
England’s Struggles and Key Injuries
England, confident after winning their first three group matches, struggled in this crucial game. Nat Sciver-Brunt stood out with an unbeaten 57, but the rest of the lineup failed to contribute significantly. England’s innings was disrupted further when captain Heather Knight retired hurt with a calf injury after scoring 21, halting their momentum. Afy Fletcher (3-21) and Deandra Dottin (1-16) bowled brilliantly, restricting England to 141 for 7.
West Indies’ Aggressive Start and Fielding Prowess
West Indies’ fielding was sharp, with Dottin and Fletcher playing key roles, but England faltered. The English side dropped five catches, including two crucial ones from Joseph, adding to their downfall. In contrast, West Indies started their chase aggressively, with Matthews hitting Lauren Bell for six in the second over. Joseph, despite some early luck, grew in confidence, smashing sixes and boundaries, helping West Indies score 67 in the powerplay—the highest of the tournament so far.
England’s exit from the group stage is only their second in T20 World Cup history, having missed the knockouts previously in 2010. With West Indies and South Africa advancing, England’s net run-rate left them third in the group, ending their campaign.
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