WI vs ENG (3rd T20)
In a stunning display of batting supremacy, England seized a remarkable victory over the West Indies in their 3rd T20 of five played at St. George’s, Grenada. Chasing down the highest-ever total scored in T20 at this venue, Phil Salt emerged as England’s hero, delivering a standout century, ably supported by quick bursts from Butler, Livingstone, and Harry Brook.
Winning the toss earlier in the day, England faced a daunting task, conceding a colossal 222 runs in their allotted T20 overs. Nicholas Pooran led the charge with a blistering 82 runs off 45 deliveries, setting relentless pace. The remaining Carrib batters continued to capitalized on the momentum set by Pooran, culminating a formidable target for the visitors, although losing 6 wickets.
Undeterred by the challenge and the looming threat of a series loss, the English batsmen launched a spirited assault against the home team. Phil Salt and Jos Butler set the stage ablaze, piling on 73 runs in the opening powerplay and extended their solid start to 115 runs before Butler’s lost his wicket on 51 in the 12th over.
Phil Salt undeterred by the lose of his partner, kept troubling the Windies bowlers with his powerful stroke play, next teaming up with Livingstone to add 70 runs more runs to their total in the following 6 overs. However, the game still hung in the balance, with England needing 38 runs off the final two overs with Livingstone falling short in the penultimate ball of the 18th over.
Enter Harry Brook, who showcased nerves of steel, unleashed hellfire on the hosts, smashing 4 sixes and a four. His bullet 31 runs off just 7 balls steered England to victory, proudly watched on by centurion Phil Salt concluded the match with a masterful unbeaten 109 runs. Salt was rightfully awarded the Man of the Match award for his exceptional performance.
With two more wins required to claim the 5-match series, England remains determined, while the West Indies hold on to a 2-1 lead, needing just one more to win their second trophy of the tour.
Chief Scores :
West Indies – 222 for 6 in 20 overs (Nicholas Pooran 82, Rovman Powell 39, Sherfane Rutherford 29, Adil Rashid 2 for 32, Sam Curran 2 for 34, Moeen Ali 1 for 26)
England – 226 for 3 in 19.5 overs (Phil Salt 109*, Jos Butler 51, Harry Brook 31*, Gudakesh Motie 1 for 30, Andre Russell 1 for 50, Jason Holder 1 for 51)