West Indies all-rounder Matthew Forde is hoping to back up his record-breaking knock with another big performance in Sunday’s final ODI against Ireland, as the visitors look to square the three-match series and leave Dublin on a high.
Ireland lead the series 1-0 following a 124-run win in the first ODI, while the second match on Friday was abandoned due to rain after Forde’s explosive half-century helped West Indies post a daunting 352-8.
The 23-year-old Barbadian made headlines by smashing a blistering 50 off just 16 balls, as he equalled the record for the fastest ODI half-century set by South African AB de Villiers in 2015. He was eventually dismissed for 58 from 19 deliveries, laced with eight sixes and two fours.
"I didn’t even know about the record until I came off the field. The guys were teasing me, saying I could’ve broken it if I didn’t try to dink the previous ball. But for me, it was just about scoring runs at that point. I didn't have any of that in mind, but to come away with 50 and to make history—yeah, that’s a big plus," Forde said.
Forde’s knock came after Keacy Carty’s composed 102 anchored the innings, with Shai Hope (49) also chipping in. Forde dominated a brisk 68-run seventh-wicket stand with Justin Greaves, who was left unbeaten on 44.
Having made 38 in the series opener, Forde continues a solid run of form carried over from the West Indies Championship, where he tallied 396 runs and 15 wickets.
Forde credited a shift in mindset and focused preparation for his recent performances.
"I changed my mindset and approach to being a bit more dominant at the crease so I can really have an impact with the bat. I did a lot of work back home and trusted my technique, which is a big part of where I am at now. I also like to be a confident player, so all of that is really paying off," Forde shared.
He also pointed out that the short-ball and wide deliveries on Friday suited his preparation.
"In previous matches, the guys bowled me wide, so I did quite a bit of work on that area. I was trying to execute my shots wide, and it just came together well today (Friday)," Forde noted.
Forde was full of praise for teammate Keacy Carty on his second ODI century, which he viewed as a “very important knock” after the team lost two early wickets in the powerplay.
"Keacy’s really stamped his authority in ODI cricket this year. He's also a very big, important part for us in that top order, so I must say kudos to him; it was well played," he said.
Despite the disappointment of not getting a result, Forde remains optimistic about West Indies' chances in Sunday’s decider.
"We were looking forward to defending that 350. Unfortunately, we can’t control the weather, but the key now is to bounce back. We’ll come out firing in the final game. Hopefully I can back up this performance—whether with bat or ball—to leave Ireland with a win," he ended.