The West Indies Women’s cricket team claimed a commanding 8-wicket victory over Bangladesh Women at Warner Park in St. Kitts, taking a 1-0 lead in their three-match T20 International series.

The result was built on enterprising knocks from captain Hayley Matthews and veteran all-rounder Deandra Dottin, both of whom struck unbeaten half-centuries to guide their side to an easy chase of 145.

Chasing a target of 145, the Windies Women made light work of the chase, reaching 145 for 2 in just 16.5 overs with 8 wickets in hand. Matthews was the star at the top of the order, smashing 7 boundaries on her way to an impressive 60 not out from 54 balls. She shared in a vital 72-run partnership for the third wicket with Dottin, who played a sensational knock, hitting 7 sixes in a whirlwind 51 not out off just 22 deliveries.

The pair’s explosive performances came after Qiana Joseph (29) and Shemaine Campbelle (3) had been dismissed with the score on 73. With the game already well in hand, Matthews and Dottin guided their team home with ease, leaving Bangladesh with little chance of a comeback.

Earlier, Bangladesh Women had won the toss and elected to bat, but they were restricted to a modest 144 for 3 in their allotted 20 overs. Captain Nigar Sultana Joty top-scored for the visitors with an unbeaten 53 off 40 balls. Joty shared a solid 82-run partnership for the third wicket with Sharmin Akter, who contributed 37 before being dismissed by Cherry-Ann Fraser.

Matthews had earlier made an impact with the ball, dismissing Dilara Akter Dola for just 12, while Afy Fletcher removed Sobhana Mostary for 22. At 43 for 2 after 7.3 overs, Bangladesh was in early trouble, and they would never fully recover from the early setbacks.

West Indies Women with the result have taken a 1-0 lead in the series. The second match takes place on Wednesday.