SYDNEY, Australia- In a riveting display of talent and skill, Hayley Matthews scored a blazing 99 not out off just 74 deliveries in the 1st T20 International at the North Sydney Oval. However, her lone effort couldn’t save the day for the West Indies Women, who were defeated by 8 wickets.

Matthews took the opposition bowlers to the cleaners, hitting boundaries at will, and missing her well-deserved century by a whisker. Her innings was adorned with 12 fours and 4 sixes, making it one of the most memorable performances of her career.

The West Indies, riding on Matthews’ brilliance, posted a defendable total of 147/3 in their 20 overs. However, the opposition seemed unfazed by the challenge and chased down the target in 13.2 overs, losing only two wickets in the process, to finish the game on 149/2. Skipper Alyssa Healy scored 56 off 29 while Tahlia McGrath finished on 60 not out from 32 deliveries to guide the home team to the opening win.