West Indies secure ODI series with decisive victory over England. X.com (@FlashCric)
In the decisive third One-Day International (ODI) match at Kensington Oval, Barbados, the West Indies defeated England by eight wickets, securing a 2-1 series victory. Chasing a target of 264, the West Indies eased to victory in just 43 overs, powered by superb centuries from Keacy Carty and Brandon King.
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, England’s top order faltered dramatically, plummeting to 24-4 within the first ten overs. The early collapse saw opening batters depart cheaply as the West Indies bowlers applied consistent pressure. However, England found stability through Phil Salt, who played a crucial role with a resilient knock of 74 off 108 balls. Salt’s innings helped the visitors rebuild, as he partnered with middle-order batters to gradually lift England’s total.
Sam Curran contributed a valuable 40 runs, while Dan Mousley made an impressive ODI debut with his first half-century. Jamie Overton’s aggressive 32 and Jofra Archer’s quick-fire 38* at the tail end provided England a respectable finish, posting a total of 263-8 from their 50 overs. Matthew Forde was the standout bowler for the West Indies, claiming three wickets for 35 runs, effectively dismantling England’s top order in the early stages.
In response, the West Indies chase was orchestrated to perfection by Keacy Carty and Brandon King, who displayed patience and power in equal measure. Sint Maarten’s Carty shone with his maiden international century, reaching 128* off 114 balls, including a flurry of boundaries that kept the pressure on England’s bowlers. Not to be outdone, King registered his third ODI century, amassing 102 from 117 deliveries before falling late in the innings.
The duo’s 194-run partnership became the backbone of the West Indies chase, allowing the hosts to cruise past the target with seven overs to spare. England’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, with Jamie Overton taking the sole wicket for 17 runs.
With Jos Buttler back as captain, England now shifts focus to the upcoming T20 series against the West Indies. The first of five matches will begin on Saturday at the same venue. After defeating the ODI series, England will aim to regroup and regain momentum in a shorter format.
