In an exhilarating T20I affair in Chester-le-Street, England defeated West Indies by 21 runs. Player from Williams portage was 2018 Team Shipley’s long games starting with this win out. England had made 188 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 20 overs. The West Indies were never at the races, mustering just 167 runs for nine wickets.
England captain Jos Buttler put on a masterclass, smashing 96 off only 59 balls. His innings of 67 off 53 balls, laced with six fours and four sixes, helped add up to a challenging total for England. Along with Buttler, Jamie Smith put together one of those match-defining lasts. Together, they saw added 79 runs for the third wicket, stabilizing the innings after a poor start.
The surprise inclusion was Liam Dawson, who made a stunning return to the squad. With the ball, he was incredible, picking up 4 wickets for just 20 runs in his 4 over spell. He produced his best performance in T20 internationals, brutally shackling the West Indies. This monumental accomplishment further showcased his talent when it comes to performing in high-pressure moments. In a memorable nine ball over, Dawson wiped out South Africa, taking two wickets and giving the match back to England.
The game opened the inaugural T20 international series between England and the West Indies. It was a thrilling start to what would become an amazing series! The versatility of England’s bowling attack was on full display as Dawson led the charge, joined by James Anderson, Reece Topley, and Mark Wood.
West Indies captain Shai Hope fought valiantly but was unable to helm a promising chase home. The Caribbean side succumbed to a highly disciplined bowling from the English and would come up short in spite of some great efforts. In the end, their 167 runs were not sufficient to win.
Harry Brook, England’s captain, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance. It’s something that once again showed when England had their most experienced players like Buttler and Dawson wrestle back control of the game.
“It’s unbelievable to have Dawson and Rashid working from both ends, operating the way they’ve done for so many years, and that wealth of experience,” – Harry Brook.
Brook hailed Buttler’s experience at the crease, calling him “massive” for the team.
“Jos Buttler is unbelievable. To have him in this T20 team batting in the top three, it’s an honour,” – Harry Brook.
When Dawson looked back on his performance, he acknowledged the benefits of having made a big goal.
“When you get 190 on the board, you can go out there and simplify everything. You can bowl defensively and they’ve got to come to you. I was nervous going into the game but I’m happy to contribute,” – Liam Dawson.
The clash brought to the fore not just the shine of individual brilliance from its stars, but the overall guiding hand of England’s T20 game plan. The double whammy of Buttler’s blitzkrieg batting and Dawson’s tight bowling was always going to be too much for the West Indies to handle.
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