* PNG go down fighting in a courageous display of cricket – (Match 2)
By Marlon Dale Ferriera
In a thrilling start to their T20 World Cup campaign, co-hosts West Indies narrowly avoided a stunning upset against Papua New Guinea. The match, held in Guyana, showcased the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and the fighting spirit of the underdogs.
Batting first, Papua New Guinea got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets to the pace and spin combination of the West Indies attack. Romario Shepherd and Akeal Hosein struck early blows, putting the pressure on the PNG batsmen. However, a resilient innings from Sese Bau, who scored a gritty fifty, steadied the ship for Papua New Guinea. Bau’s partnership with Charles Amini provided the much-needed stability, as PNG managed to reach a respectable total of 136 for eight in their 20 overs.
In response, West Indies suffered an early setback with the loss of Johnson Charles. However, Nicholas Pooran and Brandon King steadied the ship with a crucial partnership. Pooran, in particular, showcased his class with some aggressive strokeplay, giving the hosts a glimmer of hope. But just as it seemed West Indies were cruising to victory, PNG’s bowlers struck back, dismissing both set batsmen in quick succession.
With the match hanging in the balance, Roston Chase played a crucial innings, holding the West Indies innings together. His partnership with Andre Russell proved to be the turning point, as they guided the hosts to a nail-biting victory with just a few balls to spare. Chase’s explosive 42 off 27 balls was instrumental in securing the win for West Indies, much to the relief of the home crowd.
The match was a testament to the competitive nature of T20 cricket, with Papua New Guinea showing tremendous courage and determination. Despite the loss, PNG’s performance was commendable, and they proved that they are a team to be reckoned with in the tournament.
In the end, it was West Indies’ experience and depth that saw them through, but not without a fight from Papua New Guinea. The win will give West Indies confidence as they look ahead to their upcoming matches in the tournament.
Chief Scores
Papua New Guinea 136 for 8 in 20 overs (Sese Bau 50, Kiplin Doriga 27 not out, Andre Russell 2 for 19, Alzarri Joseph 2 for 34)
West Indies 137 for 5 in 19 overs (Roston Chase 42 not out, Brandon King 34, Nicholas Pooran 27, Assad vala 2 for 28)
Player of the Match – Roston Chase
