West Indies defeated England by five wickets in a thrilling fourth T20I at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground. The hosts chased down a challenging target of 219 with an over to spare, securing their second-highest successful run chase in T20 internationals.
England had already won the five-match series with three consecutive victories. However, this match provided an exciting display of high-scoring cricket as the West Indies narrowed the series deficit to 3-1.
England chose to bat first and made a strong start. Openers Phil Salt and Will Jacks put on a 54-run partnership. Salt was the aggressor, smashing 55 off 30 balls, including four sixes and five fours. He eventually fell to Roston Chase.
England captain Jos Buttler contributed a quick 38 off 23 balls. Jacob Bethell’s unbeaten 62 and Sam Curran’s late cameo of 24 helped England reach an imposing total of 218/6.
West Indies bowlers Alzarri Joseph, Rehan Ahmed, and Roston Chase took crucial wickets. However, they struggled to contain the English batters on a good batting surface.
In response, West Indies came out swinging. Shai Hope and Evin Lewis put on a remarkable 136-run opening partnership.
Hope reached his half-century in just 23 balls, while Lewis blasted seven sixes in his 26-ball 68.
The partnership put the West Indies in a commanding position. However, England fought back with three quick wickets, leaving the hosts at 136-3.
England dismissed Hope via a run-out and Nicholas Pooran to a sharp delivery from Rehan Ahmed.
Despite the setback, West Indies captain Rovman Powell (38 off 23) and Sharfane Rutherford (29 off 20) steadied the innings.
Rutherford sealed the victory in style. He smashed two sixes off Dan Mousley in the penultimate over, ensuring the West Indies reached the target with six balls to spare.
“Guys were more committed today,” Powell said after the match. “The team showed a lot of fight, and 3-2 looks much better than 4-1. We’ll aim to finish strong tomorrow.”
England captain Jos Buttler acknowledged the quality of the contest despite the loss.
“I thought we had a great start and posted a strong score, but they played exceptionally well to chase it down,” he said.
The fifth and final T20I takes place on Sunday. The West Indies will be aiming to end the series on a high.
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