At just 18 years and 15 days, Hayley Matthews had etched her name in cricket history as the youngest player, male or female, to win a Player of the Match award in a T20 World Cup final. This remarkable achievement came during the 2016 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, where her exceptional performance was pivotal in leading the West Indies to victory.
In the final against Australia, Matthews showcased her exceptional talent by scoring 66 runs off 45 balls. Her innings was instrumental in chasing down Australia’s total of 148 runs, ultimately securing a thrilling victory by eight wickets. Early in the game, she had also dismissed the dangerous Alyssa Healy cheaply, returning figures of 1/13 (2). Matthews’ performance not only highlighted her fearless approach to batting, her ability to perform under pressure at such a young age, but also her poise under pressure, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.
Prior to Matthews, Ellyse Perry held the record for being the youngest Player of the Match in a T20 World Cup Final when she achieved this feat in 2010 at the age of 19 years and 261 days. In 2016, Matthews herself played a crucial role in the West Indies’ first T20 World Cup victory at age 18, scoring 66 runs in the final against Australia. Her consistent performances since then have established her as a key player for the team.
Matthews’ journey in international cricket began when she debuted for the West Indies at just 16 years old, and she has since become one of the most prominent figures in women’s cricket. Over her career, she has accumulated impressive statistics, including over 2,000 runs and significant wicket-taking capabilities.
In addition to her historic performance in the 2016 final, Matthews has continued to excel in subsequent tournaments. She was named Wisden’s Leading T20 Cricketer for 2023 after an outstanding year where she averaged 88 with the bat and took numerous wickets. Her consistent performances have solidified her status as one of the top all-rounders in women’s cricket today.
Her accolades include being named ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Year in 2023 and leading her team with both bat and ball throughout various tournaments. As she continues to develop her skills and leadership qualities—having taken over as captain of the West Indies team—Matthews is poised to inspire future generations of cricketers.
Hayley Matthews’ record-breaking achievement as the youngest Player of the Match in a T20 World Cup Final is not just a personal milestone but also an inspiring moment for young cricketers around the world. Her journey exemplifies talent, resilience, and the bright future of women’s cricket.
