England secured a hard-fought yet well-deserved victory against West Indies in the second One-Day International (ODI), claiming the three-match ODI series with a decisive 2-0 lead.
England triumphed by three wickets with seven balls to spare, thanks largely to a sublime innings by veteran batter Joe Root, whose unbeaten knock anchored the run chase.
Opting to bat first, West Indies posted an impressive total of 308 runs. Their batting lineup showed considerable depth and resilience, with Keacy Carty crafting a composed century. He was well supported by skipper Shai Hope, who contributed 78 runs, and Brandon King, who notched up a steady half-century. Despite the imposing total, England’s bowlers maintained composure, with Adil Rashid claiming four wickets and Saqib Mahmood picking up three. The rest of the English attack chipped in with timely breakthroughs, ensuring that West Indies did not run away with an even bigger score.
In reply, England’s top order faltered early, losing Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith for a combined total of just two runs. However, Joe Root and Harry Brook formed a much-needed 85-run partnership to stabilize the innings. Although Brook narrowly missed a half-century, falling for 47, Root carried on with characteristic poise.
Despite the subsequent quick dismissals of Brook and captain Jos Buttler, England showed resolve. A 143-run stand between Root and Will Jacks for the sixth wicket proved to be the turning point of the match. Jacks, known for his flair, offered perfect support to Root, who guided the innings with remarkable control.
Alzarri Joseph was the standout performer with the ball for West Indies, claiming four wickets and troubling the English batters with his aggressive bowling. However, the rest of the bowling unit failed to make significant inroads, with Justin Greaves and Gudakesh Motie finishing wicketless.
England ultimately sealed the ODI win with a composed 24-run eighth-wicket partnership between Root and Adil Rashid. Root finished unbeaten and was deservingly named Player of the Match. He praised the intensity of the contest and acknowledged the challenge posed by the West Indies, particularly Joseph’s pace and control.
Harry Brook, captaining England for the first time in an ODI series, expressed satisfaction with his side’s performance and commended Root’s class. He also emphasized the importance of batting depth and team unity, which he believes were pivotal in overcoming a strong West Indies side.
The third and final ODI will be played on June 3, with England aiming for a series whitewash and West Indies looking to salvage pride in what promises to be another exciting contest.