Women's World Cup: West Indies successfully defend 141 to clinch a thrilling 4-run victory against Bangladesh

West Indies defended a target of 141 runs against Bangladesh in the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup to clinch a 4-run victory. Bangladesh needed 8 runs to win from 6 balls but eventually West Indies skipper Stafanie Taylor conceded just three runs to secure a thrilling win.

Not a convincing start

Earlier, batting first, West Indies registered a total of 140 runs losing nine wickets, in 50 overs. West Indies wicketkeeper Shemaine Campbelle scored 53 runs (not out) off 107 balls to help her side in crossing the three-digit mark. Apart from the West Indies wicketkeeper only three other batters- Deandra Dottin (17 runs off 20 balls), Hayley Matthews (18 runs off 43 balls) and Afy Fletcher (17 runs off 20 balls); managed to reach the double-digit mark. 

Bangladesh bowlers- Salma Khatun and Nahida Akter scalped two wickets each as Rumana Ahmed, Ritu Moni and Jahanara Alam picked up one wicket each.

The run-chase

In reply, Bangladesh could not start the run-chase on a positive note as they lost their two opening batters scoring just 30 runs. At one point Bangladesh were nicely placed at 60 for 2 but due to a terrible batting order collapse they eventually lost their remaining eight wickets scoring just 76 runs.

West Indies spinner Hayley Matthews bagged two quick wickets to earn a crucial advantage for her side. Eventually, Matthews claimed four wickets to help her side in clinching a victory and she was also adjudged as the Player of the Match for her terrific match-winning all-round efforts.

Bangladesh skipper Nigar Sultana (25 runs off 77 balls) and Nahida Akter (25 not out off 64 deliveries) displayed some resilient batting but ultimately their efforts proved to be futile as their side had to concede a 4-run defeat.

Apart from Matthews, two other West Indies bowlers- Afy Fletcher and skipper Stafanie Taylor claimed three wickets each.

With this win, West Indies place themselves at third spot in the points table with 6 points from 5 matches. The Stafanie Taylor-led side have won three matches in the ongoing Women’s World Cup.

On the other hand, Bangladesh are currently at seventh position in the standings after winning one match out of the four matches they have played.

India are currently at fourth position in the standings as they have won two matches out of their four games.