Karishma Ramharack, Matthews keep West Indies in contention for semi-finals with crucial win
Karishma Ramharack’s impressive four-wicket haul and Hayley Matthews’ quick 34 powered West Indies to a comfortable eight-wicket win over Bangladesh in Sharjah during the Women’s T20 World Cup. Chasing a modest target of 104, West Indies reached the finish line in just 12.5 overs, securing their second victory in three matches and moving to the top of Group B. With South Africa and England also on four points but having played fewer matches, three teams are now in contention for two semi-final spots.
Bangladesh, on the other hand, suffered their second consecutive defeat in three games, significantly dampening their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages. Their batting lineup struggled once again, collapsing from 27/0 to 65/6 after being sent in to bat.
Ramharack Dominates Bangladesh Batting
Though West Indies used seven different bowlers, it was offspinner Karishma Ramharack who stole the show with a stellar performance. She struck with her first delivery, stumping opener Shathi Rani, and continued to dismantle Bangladesh’s lineup throughout the game. Her precision led to key dismissals, including Dilara Akter, Sobhana Mostary, and Ritu Moni, ending with exceptional figures of 4 for 17. This bowling effort played a crucial role in restricting Bangladesh to a modest total.
Bangladesh’s Struggles with the Bat
After an early aggressive approach by the Bangladesh openers, the innings quickly derailed. Nigar Sultana, their captain, tried to anchor the innings with a promising 27 but struggled to keep the momentum after the fall of Mostary in the 13th over. Despite some sloppy fielding by West Indies, Bangladesh couldn’t capitalize and managed only 103/9 in their 20 overs.
Matthews Leads the Chase
In reply, Hayley Matthews took full advantage of Bangladesh’s short-pitched bowling during the powerplay. She played with confidence, finding gaps with backfoot punches and collecting boundaries with ease. Her 22-ball 34 set the tone for a smooth chase, despite her eventual dismissal in the eighth over. Stafanie Taylor (retired hurt after scoring 22) and Deandra Dottin (unbeaten 19 off 7) comfortably finished the job, sealing the victory for West Indies.
With this win, West Indies boosted their semi-final hopes, while Bangladesh’s chances of progressing took a major blow.
