When the pressure is on, few rise to the occasion like Hayley Matthews. Over the years, she has delivered jaw-dropping performances on some of the biggest stages in women’s cricket. From her heroics in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final in 2016 to her stunning display in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) final in 2024, Matthews has built a reputation for excelling when it matters most. Let’s revisit four of her most iconic clutch moments that have etched her name in cricketing history.
Best of Hayley Matthews in Finals:
A Championship-Sealing 69 in the WBBL Final (2024)
In the rain-soaked final of the Women’s Big Bash League 2024, Hayley Matthews delivered a masterclass to secure Melbourne Renegades’ maiden title. Facing a formidable Brisbane Heat at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Matthews played a pivotal knock of 69 runs from 61 balls, guiding her team to a competitive total. She wasn’t done yet—her off-spin accounted for two crucial wickets (2 for 24), and she capped off the night with a vital catch.
Melbourne Renegades’ skipper had a fantastic season, scoring 324 runs with a best of an unbeaten 85 against Adelaide Strikers. She also took 14 wickets, including a best of 2 for 15. These contributions helped the Renegades finish at the top of the points table and secure a direct spot in the final. Matthews’ heroics ensured the franchise’s meteoric rise from finishing last in the previous season to reigning champions.
Teen Sensation’s 66 in the 2016 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Final
At just 18 years old, Hayley Matthews delivered one of the most memorable performances in T20 World Cup history. In their first-ever World T20 final, the West Indies faced the daunting task of chasing down a total of 148 set by the reigning champions, Australia. Matthews played a fearless innings, smashing 66 off just 45 balls in Kolkata.
Throughout the tournament, she scored 153 runs and took 3 wickets, showcasing her all-round abilities. Her efforts in the final not only anchored the West Indies’ successful chase but also included the critical wicket of Alyssa Healy. This monumental victory marked the first time the West Indies defeated Australia in a T20 international, making it an unforgettable chapter.
Dominance in the Women’s Caribbean Premier League Final (2023)
Matthews shone bright once again in the Final of the Women’s Caribbean Premier League, leading the Barbados Royals to a thrilling eight-run win over Guyana Amazon Warriors. As captain, Matthews led from the front with a scintillating 82 off 59 balls, propelling her team to a challenging total of 169 for 7.
With the ball, she continued to dazzle, picking up two wickets (2 for 38) to derail the Warriors’ chase. Her consistent performances throughout the tournament placed her second on the run-scorers’ chart with 191 runs and seven wickets, culminating in her best all-around display when it mattered the most.
A Century to Remember: 123 off 52 in the FairBreak Invitational Final (2023)
In the grand finale of the 2023 FairBreak Invitational tournament, Hayley Matthews showcased her unparalleled ability to rise to the occasion. Representing the Warriors against the Falcons, she smashed an extraordinary 123 off just 52 balls. This explosive innings accounted for more than half of her team’s total of 230 for 4.
Matthews didn’t stop there; she also delivered with the ball, dismissing key players Chamari Athapaththu and Christina Gough. After a quiet run leading up to the final, with just 45 runs and three wickets from three matches, Matthews silenced all doubts with a performance that underscored her status as one of the game’s finest big-match players.
Hayley Matthews has consistently proven that she thrives under pressure, delivering match-winning performances time and again. Whether with the bat, ball, or in the field, her ability to step up in crunch moments is what makes her a true legend of the game.
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