England defeated West Indies by eight wickets at the Kensington Oval in the first T20I. England chased down West Indies’ massive target with 19 balls to spare, thanks to a spectacular century from Phil Salt.
West Indies post a competitive total
Asked to bat first, West Indies posted a respectable total of 182 for the loss of 9 wickets in their alloted 20 overs. Wicket Keeper batter Nicholas Pooran top-scored with a steady 38 off 29 balls, which included two fours and three towering sixes.
However, England’s bowlers dominated much of the innings, keeping the West Indies lineup from truly accelerating in the later overs. Fast bowler Saqib Mahmood was particularly impressive, claiming four wickets in his four-over spell, dismantling the West Indies’ top and middle order with precision. Spinner Adil Rashid also made an impact, taking three wickets to stifle the hosts just as they looked to gain momentum.
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Phil Salt hits a blazing century in England’s reply
In response, England came out firing, with openers Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell showcasing a powerful batting display. Salt was in sublime form, tearing apart the West Indies’ bowling attack with a breathtaking century off just 54 balls. His knock of 103 included nine fours and six sixes, illustrating his intent and power as he found gaps and cleared the ropes effortlessly. Bethell provided able support with his 58 off 36 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes to keep the pressure on the West Indies bowlers.
Despite efforts from Gudakesh Motie and Romario Shepherd, who each took a wicket, West Indies struggled to contain Salt and Bethell as their partnership put England in a commanding position, allowing them to reach the target with ease in the 17th over, finishing at 183/2.
Salt’s blistering knock earned him the Player of the Match award and England took a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.