Co-hosts West Indies delivered a stern warning to the tournament's heavyweights by defeating Afghanistan convincingly in their last group match on Monday. Nicholas Pooran, the left-handed batsman, displayed a blend of grace and power, scoring 98 runs with eight sixes, leading his team to a 104-run victory over Afghanistan in Gros Islet, St Lucia. This emphatic win against a formidable Afghan team, which had previously eliminated New Zealand, demonstrated the home team's potential to win the tournament. Although teams like Australia, India, England, and South Africa are considered favorites to reach the semifinals, underestimating the West Indies could be a mistake. The West Indies, starting their Super Eights campaign against defending champions England on Wednesday (4:30 am UAE Time, Thursday), are likely to benefit from their home pitches, which also favor spinners. With Akeal Hosein, a skilled left-arm spinner who has taken nine wickets so far, and their strong batting lineup and explosive all-rounders, the West Indies remain undefeated alongside Australia, winning all four of their first-round matches. Pooran's return to form in the final group game against Afghanistan boosts the team's confidence as they gear up to face England. Pooran was unfortunately run out in the final over, but not before helping West Indies post a tournament-high 218 for five. Afghanistan managed only 114 from 16.2 overs, though both teams had already secured their spots in the Super Eight round. The West Indies aggressively took to the field after being put to bat first, with Pooran and Johnson Charles dominating the Afghan bowlers. Pooran's performance was particularly impressive, scoring against both pace and spin. Afghanistan's captain, Rashid Khan, tried to stabilize the innings but conceded runs, and the West Indies ended the powerplay at 92 for one, the highest score after six overs in a T20 World Cup. Despite some control by Afghanistan's slow bowlers, the West Indies continued to score at a high rate. The Afghan team struggled against the West Indies' bowling, with Obed McCoy taking three wickets in his first game of the tournament. Pooran also contributed with a spectacular catch as a wicketkeeper. After the match, Pooran emphasized the importance of taking responsibility and capitalizing on favorable conditions. Skipper Rovman Powell highlighted the team's improvement in rankings and the fans' growing belief, stating their intention to fully utilize home conditions in the Super Eights as they aim for their third T20 World Cup title.
Text: Lara Palmer
18.06.2024
Home team's convincing win sets stage for challenging Super Eights against top contenders