West Indies Women kicked off their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with an impressive seven-wicket victory over New Zealand Women in a closely contested Group B encounter. A brilliant unbeaten knock from Shemaine Campbelle helped the Caribbean side chase down a challenging target and secure valuable points.
Batting first, New Zealand Women posted 162/6 in 20 overs after a steady batting performance. Brooke Halliday led the scoring with a well-made 40 runs, while Isabella Gaze contributed 39. Maddy Green added an unbeaten 35 to help New Zealand finish with a competitive total.
West Indies Women responded positively during the chase despite losing an early wicket. Captain Hayley Matthews provided momentum with an important 48-run innings before Shemaine Campbelle took control of the contest.
Campbelle produced a match-winning performance, remaining unbeaten on 90 runs from 62 balls, including seven boundaries and three sixes. Her composed and aggressive batting ensured West Indies stayed on track throughout the chase.
With support from Jahzara Claxton, who remained unbeaten at the other end, West Indies Women successfully reached 163/3 in 19.5 overs, completing the chase with one ball remaining.
The victory gives West Indies Women an excellent start to their Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 journey, while New Zealand Women will look to bounce back in their upcoming group-stage matches.
Match Summary
New Zealand Women
162/6 (20 Overs)
- Brooke Halliday – 40 (32)
- Isabella Gaze – 39 (29)
- Maddy Green – 35* (22)
West Indies Women
163/3 (19.5 Overs)
- Shemaine Campbelle – 90* (62)
- Hayley Matthews – 48 (37)
Result
West Indies Women won by 7 wickets
Player of the Match
Shemaine Campbelle
- 90* runs off 62 balls
- 7 fours
- 3 sixes
Tournament
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 – Group B
Key Highlights
- West Indies Women chased 163 with one ball remaining.
- Shemaine Campbelle delivered a match-winning performance.
- West Indies secured a valuable Group B victory.
- New Zealand Women posted a competitive 162/6 but fell short of defending the target.
