In a stunning display of tactical bowling, the West Indies cricket team secured a decisive 30-run victory against tournament favorites England during their T20 World Cup clash in Mumbai. The match, held at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, witnessed a remarkable turnaround fueled by spin bowling excellence after a middle-order batting rescue.
Electing to bat first, the West Indies innings faced early collapse, stumbling to a precarious 77-4. The revival came through Sherfane Rutherford’s magnificent unbeaten 76, featuring seven massive sixes that electrified the Caribbean innings. Supported by Jason Holder’s explosive 33 from 17 deliveries, the team posted a competitive 196-6. England’s Adil Rashid emerged as the most economical bowler with impressive figures of 2-16 from his four overs.
England’s response began explosively as Phil Salt unleashed a 24-run assault in a single over, propelling the team to 67-1 during the powerplay. However, the strategic introduction of spin bowling completely transformed the game’s dynamics. Roston Chase (2-29) and Gudakesh Motie (3-33) masterfully dismantled England’s batting lineup through consistent wicket-taking deliveries.
The critical moment arrived when captain Harry Brook departed with 66 runs required from 36 balls, intensifying the pressure on England’s lower order. Two brilliant run-outs further crippled England’s chase before Adil Rashid’s dismissal at the boundary sealed the victory with six deliveries remaining.
Rutherford, deservedly awarded Player of the Match, revealed his strategic approach: “Targeting Rashid was crucial to our batting recovery. The extensive preparation before the World Cup is paying dividends when I maintain mental clarity at the crease. While we potentially fell short by 10 runs, our bowlers delivered exceptionally on this prestigious platform.”