Reigning champions England overcame their initial difficulties at the Twenty20 World Cup, securing an eight-wicket win against the previously undefeated West Indies in their Super Eight match in St Lucia on Wednesday. England's bowling attack held the West Indies to 180-4, a significant drop from their 218 scored against Afghanistan earlier. Phil Salt's 87 off 47 balls led the batting charge, ensuring the target was met within 18 overs. Having advanced to the second stage primarily due to net run rate, England's victory against a strong team boosts their position in Group 2, where they will face South Africa next.
England captain Jos Buttler praised the team's performance, noting, 'We did really well to restrict such a powerful batting lineup. It's still a decent score, but we were very smart with the bat.' The match, featuring the only two teams to have won the T20 World Cup twice, was expected to be high-scoring, but England's bowlers effectively curbed the West Indies' aggressive play, delivering 51 dot balls and taking wickets regularly.
West Indies captain Rovman Powell acknowledged England's effective bowling strategy, stating, 'Credit has to be given to England's bowling unit; they have killer plans and executed them well.' Despite a groin injury to opener Brandon King, the West Indies were optimistic at 82 without loss. However, Johnson Charles' dismissal for 38 and subsequent dismissals of key players like Nicholas Pooran and Powell, both for 36, slowed their momentum. Sherfane Rutherford's unbeaten 28 and Romario Shepherd's contribution added 37 runs, but England remained confident of reaching the target, especially after Salt and Buttler's 67-run opening partnership.
Buttler's dismissal for 25 was followed by Salt's continued aggression, eventually joined by Jonny Bairstow. Salt's explosive 30 off Shepherd in the 16th over, including three sixes and three fours, effectively sealed the victory.
