England Seal T20I Series Victory with a 3-0 Lead Over West Indies
England clinched a thrilling three-wicket win against the West Indies in the third T20 international in Saint Lucia on Thursday, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Despite a spirited recovery by the hosts, England chased down a target of 146 with four balls to spare.
The West Indies, after being reduced to 37-5, posted a respectable 145-8 thanks to skipper Rovman Powell’s crucial 54 and a gritty partnership with Romario Shepherd. England, however, overcame a few scares in their innings to seal the victory, powered by Sam Curran’s top score of 41 and vital contributions from the middle order.
West Indies Struggle Against England’s Pace Attack
After a rain-delayed start, the West Indies’ top order crumbled under the pressure of England’s bowling attack. Saqib Mahmood was the standout performer with figures of 3-17.
The collapse began early when Shai Hope was run out in the first over, followed by Evan Lewis, who edged Mahmood to Jofra Archer. Nicholas Pooran was clean-bowled by Archer, and Roston Chase edged one to slip off Mahmood, leaving the hosts reeling in the powerplay. Mahmood struck again to dismiss Shimron Hetmyer, caught at deep mid-wicket.
Powell led the recovery with a resilient 41-ball 54, featuring four sixes. Shepherd supported him well, contributing 30 runs in a 73-run stand. Late contributions from Alzarri Joseph (21 off 19) helped the West Indies post a fighting total.
England Overcome Early Wobbles
England’s chase started shakily as Akeal Hosein dismissed Phil Salt and skipper Jos Buttler cheaply, leaving them at 37-3. However, opener Will Jacks steadied the ship with a crucial 32.
The middle-order duo of Curran (41) and Liam Livingstone (39) then took charge, adding significant runs to ensure England crossed the line. Livingstone had some luck, surviving three dropped catches, but played a critical role in the victory.
Skippers React
England captain Jos Buttler praised the team’s collective effort in securing the series. “A real collective effort to win the series. We set the tone with the ball in every game. We are in a strong place, with great competition for places. This win gives us lots of confidence moving forward,” he said.
West Indies skipper Rovman Powell pointed to the team’s repeated struggles during the powerplay. “It’s disappointing that we keep losing wickets early. We need to find the balance between being natural and being smarter in our approach,” he remarked.
Looking Ahead
With the series already in their pocket, England will approach the remaining two matches in Saint Lucia with a relaxed mindset, while the West Indies will aim to restore some pride and address their batting woes.
England’s bowling unit, led by Mahmood and Archer, has consistently dominated, while the contributions of Curran and Livingstone in the middle order highlight their depth and balance. Meanwhile, the West Indies will need to regroup and find answers to their top-order struggles if they hope to avoid a whitewash.
