ICC Women's T20 World Cup: Defending champions New Zealand faced a big blow in their opening match of the ICC Women's World Cup 2026 in England. West Indies secured a commanding win over the White Ferns by seven wickets, marking a flop start to their title defense. West Indies' Shemaine Campbell was the star of the chase with brilliant 90 off 62 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes to guide her team to win in pursuit of a 163-run target.
Who clinched wickets for West Indies?
After being asked to bat first at Southampton, New Zealand got off to a strong start through wicketkeeper-opener Izzy Gaze, who scored 39 runs off 29 balls, consisting of eight fours. However, However Georgia Plimmer and skipper Amelia Kerr failed to make big contributions. '
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In the middle order, Brooke Halliday played an important knock of 40 off 32 balls with five boundaries, while Maddy Green made a valuable contribution of 35 runs. Riding on their efforts, New Zealand managed to post 162/6 in 20 overs. For the West Indies, Aaliyah Alleyne emerged as a standout bowler, finishing with four wickets.
Shemaine Campbelle powers West Indies to win
In response, West Indies did not get off to the desired start as Qiana Joseph was removed for just two runs. However, captain Hayley Matthews steadied the innings with a crucial 48 off 37, hitting six four and a six.
Following Matthews' dismissal, Shemaine Campbell took charge of the chase and anchored the innings brilliantly. The veteran batter stayed not-out on 90 off 62 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes. Riding on her match-winning knock, West Indies reached 163/3 in 19.5 overs.