Australia Women held their nerve to edge West Indies by 17 runs in a T20 that swung both ways. Perry's 42 off 28 deliveries — unflashy, controlled — anchored Australia's 164, while Georgia Voll's breezy 39 off 23 gave them the acceleration they needed in the back half. West Indies' bowlers leaked runs without much bite; Wareham took the only wicket but conceded 16 runs, a warning sign for an attack that needs to tighten in the death overs.
West Indies had the chase within grasp. Hayley Matthews' 56 off 41 was a masterclass in Test-match cricket temperament — she knew what was needed and didn't panic. Dottin's 39 off 27 kept the asking rate reasonable. Yet they fell short, and that's the real concern. The middle order folded under pressure. Australia's bowling — particularly Claxton and Dottin's 1/30 — applied just enough squeeze when it mattered. WI needed one big partnership to seal it; they got close but not close enough.
For Australia, this is a confidence win. Perry's return to form quiets any questions about her role in this format. For West Indies, the loss stings because they had the tools to win. Selection must now ask: does the middle order have enough depth? Matthews and Dottin can't do it alone. Australia moves ahead in the series; West Indies must regroup fast.