Captain Matthews Steers Windies Women to Historic T20I Series Win Over South Africa

A Caribbean Celebration at the Three Ws Oval

After a 12-year wait, the West Indies Women have finally triumphed over South Africa Women in a T20 International series. On 23 June 2025, at the iconic Three Ws Oval in Cave Hill, Barbados, skipper Hayley Matthews led her side to a thrilling six-wicket win in the decider – sealing the series 2-1 with nine balls to spare.

It wasn’t just a cricket result – it was a cultural moment. One that reminded the Caribbean and the world that West Indies women’s cricket is still alive with talent, power, and pride.

Matthews in Command

Matthews delivered a captain’s knock, scoring 65 off 50 balls, including nine fours and a six. Her innings combined cool-headed leadership with crisp, attacking strokeplay. The performance earned her both Player of the Match and Player of the Series honours.

She formed a match-defining third-wicket partnership with Shemaine Campbelle, who added a steady 42 from 38 balls. Together, they added 82 runs, anchoring the chase and keeping nerves in check.

Chinelle Henry Closes the Show

As the match edged into its final stages, Chinelle Henry stepped up with a clinical finishing act. Her unbeaten 20 from just 11 balls came with a fireworks-filled burst – smashing a 4, 6, and 4 off the first three balls of the penultimate over. The innings turned a tense contest into a celebration, with the Windies reaching their target comfortably with nine balls remaining.

Proteas Show Fight and Youthful Promise

South Africa Women posted a competitive total of 147 for 6 after winning the toss and electing to bat first. The standout was 20-year-old Miane Smit, who notched her maiden T20I half-century. She finished unbeaten on 59 from 38 balls, laced with seven boundaries and one six.

Supporting contributions came from Captain Laura Wolvaardt, who added 28, and Tazmin Brits, who chipped in with 20. But despite their efforts, the Proteas fell short on a day that belonged to the home side.

Image 1: ESPNcricinfo

Series Snapshot

• T20I series result: West Indies Women won 2–1

• WODI series result: South Africa Women won 2–1

• Historic note: This was West Indies Women’s first T20I series win over South Africa since 2013

With the WODI and T20I series split, white-ball honours were shared – but this final victory resonated deeply with Windies fans.

Social Media Reaction

Caribbean social media lit up with tributes to Hayley Matthews, with many fans calling her the “Queen of West Indies cricket.” One post went viral, reading:

“Leader. Warrior. Queen. Hayley Matthews is the real deal.”

Across cricket forums and fan accounts, the series was celebrated as one of the most entertaining women’s T20I contests of 2025.

What This Means Going Forward

This win marks a turning point for the West Indies Women. It showcased their grit, their leadership, and the depth of emerging talent. With Matthews in peak form and players like Henry and Campbelle rising to the occasion, the Windies look well-positioned for upcoming ICC tournaments.

For South Africa, the result offers important lessons – but also glimmers of hope. Young talents like Miane Smit will be central to their next chapter, and the competitive spirit shown across the tour bodes well for their future.

One thing’s clear: the world of women’s cricket is heating up, and this series proved just how thrilling and evenly matched the global game has become.

Key Match Highlights – 3rd T20I (23 June 2025)

• South Africa Women: 147/6

  • Miane Smit: 59* (38 balls, 7 fours, 1 six)

  • Laura Wolvaardt: 28

  • Tazmin Brits: 20

• West Indies Women: 148/4 (won with 9 balls remaining)

  • Hayley Matthews: 65 (50 balls)

  • Shemaine Campbelle: 42

  • Chinelle Henry: 20* (11 balls)

Also read: Thapelo Morena: Mamelodi Sundowns Will Give Everything Against Fluminense

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Source: SABC Sport

Featured Image: gsport4girls