Australia defeated the West Indies by three wickets, finishing the T20 series with a 5-0 sweep. The last tussle played out at the hallowed grounds. The Australian side went out with guns blazing and chased down a target of 171 runs, ending the match with a striking score of 173-7 in only 17 overs.
None were harder, tougher or more inspiring in execution than Mitch Owen, powering the Australian attack. By the end of the fifth over he was 37 off only 22 balls including three fours and three sixes. Cameron Green provided significant support in the knockout blow, his 32 scored off only 18 deliveries. The West Indies had earlier established a steep target, scoring 170 runs in 19.4 overs. Shimron Hetmyer shone brightly for the West Indies, scoring 52 runs off 31 balls, while his teammate, Rutherford, added 35 runs to the total.
Bowling would become the focal point for both teams. The pick of the Australians was Daniel Dwarshuis – 3/41 made him a weapon. He was a key factor in limiting the West Indies’ run-scoring chances. Hosein displayed his jaw-dropping skill set in the process. His 3-wicket haul of just 17 runs further solidified his reputation as the best player on the field.
Australia’s chase was marked by aggressive batting. Tim David played a major role in that win with four sixes in an explosive 30 off just 12 balls. Aaron Hardie further backed up the team’s intent with the bat with a terrific knock, scoring 28 runs off just 25 balls.
Mitchell Marsh, captain of the winning Australian team, stated that the clean sweep was unexpected by anyone over the course of the series.
“I didn’t expect 5-0 at the start of the series,” – Mitchell Marsh
He added some further perspective to the team’s performance by reiterating their dedication to playing their best possible cricket.
“But we played some great cricket. It was something we spoke about after the fourth game. We knew no Australian team had completed a clean sweep. We’ve had guys come in and played different roles for us.” – Mitchell Marsh
The T20 series victory only adds to the feeling that Australia is the world’s best T20 cricketing nation. It shows their resilience and camaraderie throughout the games.
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