Introduction
In a thrilling encounter, England emerged victorious against the West Indies in the fourth T20I match, leveling the five-match series at 2-2. The match, filled with record-breaking performances and high-scoring innings, saw England post their highest-ever total in T20 Internationals. Phil Salt’s century, accompanied by strong contributions from Jos Buttler and Liam Livingstone, propelled England to an imposing target of 268 runs.
England’s Power-Hitting Parade
England won the toss and elected to bat first, setting the stage for an extraordinary innings. Phil Salt led the charge with a blazing knock of 119 runs off just 57 balls. His innings included an astonishing 19 sixes, the most by an England player in the format. With support from Jos Buttler’s 55 and Liam Livingstone’s 54, England piled on a mammoth total of 267-3, their highest ever in T20Is.
West Indies’ Daunting Chase
Chasing a target of 268, the West Indies got off to a disastrous start as they lost a wicket off the very first ball. Nicholas Pooran, batting at number three, exhibited his explosive hitting with reverse sweeps and back-to-back sixes. However, the loss of wickets at regular intervals and some disciplined bowling from the English bowlers restricted the West Indies’ progress.
Andre Russell’s Heroics
Andre Russell, known for his power-hitting, provided some fireworks in the middle overs. He smashed two massive sixes off Adil Rashid’s bowling, showcasing his brute strength. However, the lack of substantial partnerships and the fall of crucial wickets hindered the West Indies’ chase.
England’s Bowling Dominance
England’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout the West Indies’ innings. Reece Topley was the standout performer with figures of 3-37, including the crucial wickets of Shimron Hetmyer and Kieron Pollard. Adil Rashid, the top-ranked T20I bowler, chipped in with a wicket and displayed his control during the middle overs.
Rehan Ahmed’s Double-Strike
In a crucial moment of the game, Rehan Ahmed struck with two wickets in consecutive balls, ending the West Indies’ resistance. He dismissed Sherfane Rutherford and Jason Holder, dealing a severe blow to the home side’s hopes of a successful chase.
Conclusion
England’s record-breaking innings proved insurmountable for the West Indies, as they fell short by 75 runs in the highly entertaining run-fest. Phil Salt’s majestic century, supported by solid contributions from Buttler and Livingstone, propelled England to their highest ever team total in T20 Internationals. Despite Andre Russell’s fireworks and some valiant efforts from the West Indies batsmen, England’s bowlers maintained control and secured a fantastic victory. The series now stands level, setting the stage for an enthralling decider.
FAQs:
Q: Who was the star player in England’s victory?
A: Phil Salt was the star player for England. He scored a century (119 from 57 balls) leading England to a record T20I total of 267-3.
Q: Did any other players perform notably in the match?
A: Yes, Jos Buttler and Liam Livingstone also scored half-centuries for England. For West Indies, Nicholas Pooran scored his career-best T20I score of 82.
Q: What records were broken in this series?
A: The series saw a new T20I record for the number of sixes. Also, England set a record for the highest T20I total.
Q: What was the result of the series?
A: The series was leveled with England’s record-breaking victory.
Q: Where and when were the final matches of the series played?
A: The final two fixtures of the five-match series were played in Trinidad and Tobago on December 19 and December 21.