England Clinch Thriller in St Lucia to Seal T20I Series Win Against West Indies
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| England sealed the series with a 3-wicket win, marking their first T20I series win in the Caribbean since 2018/19. / GEtty |
England edged past West Indies in a gripping third T20I at St Lucia, clinching a thrilling three-wicket victory to seal the series 3-0 with two games to spare.
The Jos Buttler-led side marked England's first T20I series triumph in the Caribbean since 2018-19, showcasing both grit and resilience in a game that swung until the last over. Fielding lapses cost the hosts dearly, with dropped catches and misfields proving pivotal as England chased down a target of 146.
The game started with a 45-minute delay due to inclement weather, but upon resumption, Buttler won his third toss in a row and opted to bowl. The West Indies’ powerplay was a nightmare as they collapsed to 29/5 within six overs. Shai Hope’s run-out in the first over set an ominous tone, with subsequent reckless shots by Windies batters fueling their swift procession back to the pavilion. England's Saqib Mahmood starred with the new ball, bagging three crucial wickets, while Jofra Archer’s delivery to dismiss Nicholas Pooran added to the hosts’ woes.
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| Rovman Powell fighting 50 and his seventh 50 in T20Is / Getty |
Rovman Powell attempted to rebuild with a fighting 50, his seventh in T20Is, in a crucial 73-run partnership with Romario Shepherd (30). Jamie Overton eventually broke the partnership, triggering another collapse. Overton’s three-wicket haul not only stifled the West Indies’ momentum but also brought up his 100th T20 wicket. Alzarri Joseph's unbeaten 21 provided some late impetus, but the West Indies could only post a modest 145/8.
England’s chase had a rocky start as Phil Salt and Will Jacks struggled to find rhythm. Akeal Hosein dismissed Salt early and soon sent Buttler packing, leaving England at 3 down for 37 in the powerplay. Alzarri Joseph’s dismissal of Jacob Bethell further intensified pressure on the visitors. Sam Curran, however, steadied the innings with a solid 41, adding vital runs with Jacks before both fell at crucial moments, leaving the game precariously balanced.
Liam Livingstone’s determined 39 off 28 balls eventually tilted the balance in England’s favor, despite Pooran dropping him twice. Livingstone powered England to the brink of victory before falling in a glory shot attempt. Akeal Hosein was the standout bowler for the hosts, claiming 4/22, but his efforts weren’t enough to prevent England’s triumph.
The West Indies will look back at their missed opportunities on the field as the difference-maker. Lapses in concentration, particularly during the powerplay and in the field, cost them a chance to push England harder. In a series that has seen England capitalize on their strong starts and disciplined bowling, West Indies will have to address their consistency if they are to avoid a whitewash.
With two games left in the series, England will aim to continue their dominance, while the West Indies will look for redemption and a chance to restore pride in the remaining matches.