West Indies knock Ireland out of T20 World Cup with narrow victory

18.02.2023 - 00:21 theguardian.com

Hayley Matthews’ unbeaten half-century knocked Ireland out of the T20 World Cup as the West Indies secured a six-wicket victory in Cape Town.

With both teams having lost their opening two games, the meeting was a must-win encounter for either side, yet despite Orla Prendergast’s half-century helping set West Indies a target of 138, captain Matthews was able to steer her side home.

Although Amy Hunter was dismissed early, Ireland dominated the early stages of their innings with Gaby Lewis and Prendergast putting on a 90-run partnership, but the wickets quickly began to tumble when Shamilia Connell found the breakthrough to get Prendergast out.

Karishma Ramharack then struck twice in the 16th over, dismissing Lewis (38) and Louise Little (without scoring) before Afy Fletcher picked up two wickets in an over, getting Laura Delany and Arlene Kelly out and Ireland were reduced to 137 for nine.

cricket Sporting bowling victory cup Hayley Matthews Laura Delany Ireland Cape Town

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