ICC CWC 2022 | 'We can take so many positives out of this tournament' - Hayley Matthews

After losing the semi-final game against Australia, the West Indies hopes of reaching the 2022 Women's World Cup final were shattered. However, their skipper Stafanie Taylor and star all-rounder Hayley Matthews claimed to take this defeat as a stepping stone for further progress and reminded them of their successful journey in the marquee event.

West Indies beat New Zealand in the tournament opener and then pulled off another major upset by defeating the defending champions, England.

"We beat two of the top teams, and I reckon no one expected that, and to be in the semi-finals, is a big achievement. I think the way we played throughout the tournament has been really good. But, of course, we had some ups and downs, and that happens. But it's about learning, and I believe we are still learning, and I am proud of the way we played," Stafanie Taylor said after losing to Australia.

West Indies were not the favourites before the competition began. But as the Women in Maroon marched on the back of two consecutive wins against the top-rated teams, they advanced to the knockout stage despite having below-par performances in the latter half of the league stage.

Hayley Matthews, the top performer for her side, added that the West Indies have a bright future ahead and leave the tournament with many positives.

"Obviously, we would like to go further, but I think looking back on this team's journey, playing a series against South Africa last year ... even in terms of individual growth, we've seen so many of our players taking steps and becoming better players, becoming more consistent. And there are just so many positives that we can take out of this tournament, which is really heartening to see," the off-spinner asserted.

With the women's CPL scheduled to run alongside the men's version starting this year, the all-rounder stated how it would help West Indies find and nurture young talent.

"I think things like those are only going to help with our growth ... . I reckon the more cricket we can play at a lower level to the domestic stuff, which is why CPL is going to be so big for us, hopefully, we can get some more young girls coming through the system," Hayley mentioned.