In a stunning turn of events, the West Indies have emerged victorious in a T20 series against India, just a month after failing to qualify for the ODI World Cup. Celebrations were in full swing as the Windies triumphed in the fifth T20I, clinching an eight-wicket win over India in a decisive showdown held in Florida.
Having faced setbacks in the Caribbean during the series’ initial matches, India was determined to reverse their fortunes. Opting to bat first in the fifth T20, India managed to set a target of 165 runs with 9 wickets down at the Central Broward Stadium. However, it was the West Indies who ultimately stole the spotlight with a chase that reached 171 runs for the loss of just 2 wickets in 18 overs, a feat made even more remarkable due to intermittent bad weather.
Brandon King, the West Indies opener, led his team’s charge with a dazzling display of skill. His unbeaten 85 runs off 55 balls included six sensational sixes, with one of them marking his half-century, along with five well-executed fours. King joined forces with Nicholas Pooran (47), forging an impressive 107-run partnership for the second wicket.
India, whose openers had demonstrated dominance in the previous T20 at the same stadium, faltered this time around. Yashasvi Jaiswal (5) was dismissed early in the first over, caught and bowled by spinner Akeal Hosein (2-24). Akeal Hosein continued to make an impact, reducing India to 2-17 with the dismissal of Shubman Gill (9).
Suryakumar Yadav, batting at No. 3, emerged as India’s top scorer with a resilient 61 runs off 45 balls. The West Indies’ fast-medium bowler Romario Shepherd took center stage with an impressive bowling performance, claiming 4 wickets for 31 runs.
India fielded an unchanged team from their previous victory over the West Indies, while the Windies brought Alzarri Joseph back into the fold and bolstered their spin options with Roston Chase, omitting Obed McCoy and Odean Smith. Despite their efforts, Joseph struggled and conceded 41 runs in three wicketless overs.
The series saw India secure a seven-wicket victory in the third T20 in Providence, Guyana, before heading to Florida. The West Indies managed to clinch a two-wicket win in the second T20 at Providence Stadium, following their four-run victory in the opener at Tarouba, Trinidad. This turnaround victory for the West Indies is a testament to their resilience and determination on the cricketing stage.
By -Sahiba Suri