On June 19, defending champions England overcame their early struggles in the T20 World Cup by decisively defeating the previously unbeaten West Indies by eight wickets in their Super Eight opener in St. Lucia. England’s bowlers were instrumental in restricting the West Indies to 180-4, a significant feat on the same pitch where the co-hosts had amassed 218 runs against Afghanistan just days earlier. Opener Phil Salt then spearheaded the successful chase with a commanding 87 off 47 balls, securing victory within 18 overs. England, who narrowly advanced to the Super Eight based on net run rate, will gain substantial confidence from this win as they lead Group 2, ahead of their next match against South Africa on Friday at the same venue.
England captain Jos Buttler expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly in containing the West Indies' formidable batting lineup. He remarked on their smart approach with the bat, acknowledging that although the target was challenging, their strategic batting ensured a comfortable chase.
This highly anticipated clash, featuring the only two teams to have won the T20 World Cup twice, was expected to be a high-scoring affair. Much of England's success can be attributed to their bowlers, who effectively curbed the big-hitting abilities of the West Indies batsmen. Opting to field first after winning the toss, England’s bowlers delivered 51 dot balls and regularly took wickets in the latter half of the innings, preventing any West Indies batter from reaching a half-century.
West Indies captain Rovman Powell noted that their batting could have been 15-20 runs better and suggested their bowling could have been more effective. He commended the English bowling attack for their precise execution and strategic planning.
The West Indies had a promising start, with opener Brandon King scoring 23 before retiring hurt due to a groyne injury. At the midway point of their innings, they had a strong foundation at 82 without loss. However, just as they were poised to accelerate, Johnson Charles fell for 38, caught in the deep off Moeen Ali’s bowling. Key players Nicholas Pooran and Rovman Powell each added 36 runs but were dismissed in consecutive overs, followed by Andre Russell's quick departure for one in the 17th over, leaving the West Indies at 143-4.
Despite a late partnership of 37 runs between Sherfane Rutherford and Romario Shepherd, England felt confident about chasing down the target. Salt and Buttler set a solid platform with a 67-run opening stand. Although Buttler was dismissed for 25 by Roston Chase's off-spin, Salt continued to maintain the scoring rate. Joined by Jonny Bairstow, Salt allowed Bairstow to initially take charge but then unleashed an onslaught against Shepherd in the 16th over, hitting three sixes and three fours, effectively sealing the match.