📷 Image Credits: ICC Cricket
The West Indies team showcased their dominance as they secured an impressive 35-run victory against Australia in their warm-up match for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The match took place in Trinidad on a thrilling Thursday where the West Indies co-hosts set an imposing total of 257/4 at Queens Park Oval. Nicholas Pooran’s spectacular 75, complemented by power-hitting displays from Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, and Johnson Charles, propelled the Caribbean side to a commanding position. Pooran, in particular, stood out by smashing eight sixes in a quickfire innings.
In response, Australia, albeit missing some key players, showed resilience with notable contributions from Josh Inglis, Nathan Ellis, and Ashton Agar. However, the target was always going to be a tough chase, as the defending champions finished with 222/7. The West Indies’ top-order dominance was evident as all Australian bowlers faced the heat, with Adam Zampa conceding 62 runs in his spell.
The West Indies issued a warning to their opponents with this run-filled victory, emphasizing their strength in the T20 format. With the T20 World Cup just around the corner, this triumph serves as a statement of intent from the two-time champions. The home crowd was treated to an entertaining display of power-hitting as the West Indies hit a total of 18 sixes, setting the stage for an exciting campaign ahead.
In a contrasting warm-up fixture, Namibia narrowly defeated Papua New Guinea by three runs (DLS method) in a rain-affected match. The West Indies’ commanding performance against Australia not only signals their readiness for the upcoming tournament but also highlights their potential to make a significant impact in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
