Is Hayley Matthews Set to Claim the Top Spot in T20I Batting Rankings?
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Synopsis
In an electrifying series against South Africa, West Indies' Hayley Matthews has surged toward the top of the ICC Women's T20I batting rankings. As she narrows the gap to leader Beth Mooney, the cricket world awaits her next move. Will she claim the top spot?
Key Takeaways
- Hayley Matthews is close to the T20I batting top spot.
- She scored 147 runs in three matches against South Africa.
- Matthews has a career-high rating of 770 points.
- South African players also made notable climbs in the rankings.
- Afy Fletcher boosted her ranking in T20I bowling.
Dubai, June 24 (NationPress) West Indies captain Hayley Matthews has made significant strides against South Africa, positioning herself close to the pinnacle of the ICC Women's T20I batting rankings.
During the recent series, Matthews scored a total of 147 runs across three T20I matches at home, playing a crucial part in West Indies' 2-1 series victory, breaking a long-standing winning drought. Her stellar performance has brought her within just 24 points of Beth Mooney, who currently holds the top ranking.
The 27-year-old achieved a personal best of 770 rating points, significantly narrowing the gap to Mooney’s position.
Meanwhile, three South African players moved up the ICC rankings following their commendable performances against the West Indies. Notably, Tazmin Brits ascended two spots to sixth, Nadine de Klerk advanced three places to 51st, and Annerie Dercksen jumped eight spots to a tie for 79th.
In the T20I bowling rankings, South Africa saw progress with Nonkululeko Mlaba rising six places to share eighth place, while Ayabonga Khaka climbed four positions to tie at 38th, marking them as some of the standout movers in this update.
The West Indies also gained traction in the T20I bowling rankings, largely thanks to veteran spinner Afy Fletcher, who moved up three places to 12th after taking two wickets in both the second and third T20Is. Notably, Hayley Matthews holds onto her position as the top-ranked all-rounder in T20Is.
The final ODI match between West Indies and South Africa triggered notable changes in the ICC ODI rankings as well. Tazmin Brits was a standout, finishing as the top run-scorer in the series with 184 runs, which propelled her six places up to a career-best 21st in the ODI batting rankings.
Her opening partner, Laura Wolvaardt, also climbed the rankings after scoring 75 in the final ODI, moving out of a tie for second place and now trails Smriti Mandhana by just two rating points for the top position.
In bowling, South Africa's Marizanne Kapp jumped two spots to seventh, while Nonkululeko Mlaba gained three positions to reach 20th. Masabata Klaas also rose significantly, climbing six spots to a tie for 37th.
Point of View
I believe Hayley Matthews' recent performances highlight not only her individual talent but also the growing competitiveness in women's cricket. Her progress in the rankings showcases the evolution of the sport and the rising stars within it. As we follow this narrative, it is crucial to celebrate these athletes who are paving the way for future generations.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What rankings is Hayley Matthews close to topping?
Hayley Matthews is close to topping the ICC Women's T20I batting rankings.
How many runs did Matthews score in the series against South Africa?
Matthews scored a total of 147 runs across three T20I matches against South Africa.
Who currently holds the top T20I batting ranking?
Beth Mooney currently holds the top spot in the T20I batting rankings.
What other players moved up in the ICC rankings?
Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, and Annerie Dercksen from South Africa all moved up in the rankings.
What was Afy Fletcher's achievement in the T20I bowling rankings?
Afy Fletcher climbed three spots to 12th in the T20I bowling rankings.
