ICC Women's T20 World Cup: West Indies power past England to reach semi-finals

The West Indies stormed into the semi-finals of the Women's T20 World Cup with a dominant six-wicket win over England on Tuesday in Dubai. An explosive opening partnership between Qiana Joseph and captain Hayley Matthews set the stage for their victory as they successfully chased down England's total of 141-7 with 12 balls to spare.

Joseph scored her first T20 international fifty, hitting 52 off 38 balls, while Matthews contributed 50 runs from just 38 deliveries. Their 102-run opening stand proved too much for England, who were eliminated from the competition. South Africa also advanced to the semi-finals from Group B.

“Incredibly proud of the group. Up against the odds tonight, but to perform like that with the bat, with Joseph scoring her first T20I fifty – what a time to do that,” said Matthews.

West Indies began their chase aggressively, with Matthews hitting a six and two boundaries in the very first over. Joseph soon joined in, hammering England’s bowlers, and by the fifth over, the team had raced to 55-0. England’s fielding struggles added to their woes, with several key catches dropped.

Joseph was named player of the match for her brilliant knock, which included two sixes and six fours, while Matthews gave England’s bowlers trouble before being dismissed. Deandra Dottin then sealed the victory with her 27-run contribution, giving West Indies their first win over England in 14 matches and their first away victory against them in a decade.

England captain Heather Knight credited the West Indies for their strong performance. "Credit to them, they came at us hard, played the conditions well, and put us under pressure. Tough to take but credit to Hayley and her team."

Earlier, England's innings was anchored by Nat Sciver-Brunt, who top-scored with 57 not out, while Knight retired hurt on 21. However, despite their efforts, the team struggled against West Indies' disciplined bowling, with Afy Fletcher taking 3-21 and Matthews chipping in with 2-35.

The semi-finals are now set, with West Indies and South Africa moving forward from Group B.