West Indies Secure Thrilling Five-Wicket Win Over England in Record-Breaking Chase

West Indies delivered a stunning performance to defeat England by five wickets in the penultimate T20I of the series at the Darren Sammy Stadium. The home side successfully chased down a massive target of 219, setting a new record for the highest successful run-chase at the venue and the second-highest in West Indies’ T20I history.

Lewis and Hope Light Up the Chase

Openers Evin Lewis and Shai Hope powered West Indies’ incredible start with a scintillating 136-run stand off just 55 balls. The duo smashed 10 sixes and 11 fours between them, putting the team in a commanding position early in the innings.

Hope reached his fifth T20I half-century off just 23 balls, showcasing sublime strokeplay, while Lewis entertained the crowd with a jaw-dropping 105-meter six. Lewis’s 68 off 31 balls and Hope’s 54 off 25 set the stage for a thrilling finish. Despite a mini-collapse in the middle order, Rovman Powell’s explosive 38 off 23 balls and Sherfane Rutherford’s calm finishing touch ensured victory for the hosts with seven balls to spare.

England’s Flying Start

Earlier, England posted a challenging 218 for 5, equaling the highest first-innings total at the venue. Phil Salt and Will Jacks provided a flying start, adding over 50 runs within the first five overs. Salt continued his fine form with a brisk 55 off 35 balls, while Jacob Bethell stole the show later with a fiery 62* off just 32 balls, including three consecutive sixes.

England’s innings saw contributions from captain Jos Buttler (38) and Will Jacks (28), but West Indies’ bowlers managed to pick crucial wickets in the middle overs to limit the damage.

Key Moments of the Match

Explosive Opening Partnership: Lewis and Hope’s blistering partnership of 136 runs dismantled England’s bowling attack, setting the tone for the chase.
Mini-Collapse Adds Drama: West Indies lost three quick wickets, including Hope and Nicholas Pooran in consecutive deliveries, creating a tense middle phase.
Powell’s Impactful Knock: Powell steadied the ship with his aggressive 38, anchoring the chase at a critical juncture.
Rutherford’s Composure: Rutherford’s towering sixes in the final overs sealed the game for West Indies, showcasing his nerves of steel.

Match Significance

This thrilling win allows West Indies to salvage some pride in a series already clinched by England, who won the first three matches. The record-breaking chase will serve as a morale booster for the hosts heading into the final match.