Despite falling short by 40 runs in their spirited run chase against South Africa in the second One Day International (ODI), West Indies Women’s captain Hayley Matthews took heart from her team's performance at the Three Ws Oval on Saturday.
In fact, while she reflected on areas for improvement, the all-rounder also expressed confidence that her team can bounce back and take the series.
"I think we started pretty well and applied a lot of pressure in the first 10-15 overs, but as the pitch flattened out, we weren’t able to execute our defensive plans as well as we wanted to,” Matthews admitted after the match, which saw South Africa level the three-match series 1-1.
The Proteas, after being put in to bat, posted an imposing 309-9, a total built on contributions throughout the lineup. Sune Luus top-scored with 76 off 65 balls, and Nondumiso Shangase added a brisk 55 off 48. Only three South African batters failed to reach double figures, as Matthews (2-47) and leg-spinner Afy Fletcher (4-64) did most damage for the West Indies.
Still, Matthews believes the Caribbean side missed a trick by not sustaining pressure throughout the innings, particularly with the ball.
"I think we were really good in areas and periods today. I think we just probably need to be good for a bit longer, especially within the bowling innings," Matthews noted.
"But South Africa’s opening batters are very experienced, and they have their game plan. I think what is really important and what has been really good for us is that they haven’t gotten away too much in the powerplay, and if we continue to build that pressure, I think it will help with wickets coming throughout the rest of the innings," she added.
The chase, though ultimately unsuccessful, did offer promise. Matthews once again led from the front with a fluent 56 off 58 deliveries, striking nine boundaries. Wicketkeeper Shemaine Campbelle backed her up with a composed 53, and Chinelle Henry chipped in with 39. The team was eventually bowled out on the final ball of the innings for 269—their highest-ever score chasing against South Africa in an ODI.
"I think we can take a lot of positives out of it for sure. Obviously chasing 309 was always going to be a hard task, but I think for us to get to 260 was quite impressive, and also how we got there with so many batters chipping in, and I guess not relying on one or two players, was good to see," Matthews shared.
That said, Matthews believes their batting depth will be crucial for Tuesday’s decider. However, to complete the job and claim the series win, she is clear on what needs tightening.
"I feel like we definitely hit par with the bat and went about our innings really well. We probably just need to try to restrict them for a little less next match, and that would definitely give us a better chance next game," Matthews ended.