England’s T20 World Cup defense may have faltered in the Caribbean, but they have rebounded with a vengeance in the ongoing series against West Indies. After a dominant eight-wicket victory in the opening fixture, England has followed up with two more emphatic wins, putting them on the cusp of their second bilateral series triumph in two years.
Phil Salt has been instrumental in England’s success, scoring a century in the first match and a riotous 83 in the second. Captain Jos Buttler has also stepped up, hitting a blistering 83 in the second game. West Indies, on the other hand, have been hampered by lost tosses and internal disruptions, including the suspension of Alzarri Joseph and the injury to Andre Russell.
England’s all-rounders have been deployed effectively in the shorter format, with Sam Curran, Dan Mousley, and Jamie Overton waiting in the wings for their chance. The depth of their batting has yet to be fully tested, but the fact that they have options is a testament to their strength.
West Indies’ Rovman Powell has struggled for form, but he showed glimpses of his true self in the last match. Will Jacks, on the other hand, has failed to live up to expectations since earning a central contract.
For the third match, West Indies have recalled Alzarri Joseph from suspension and added Shamar Springer as a replacement for Russell. England is unlikely to make significant changes, although Reece Topley may return from injury.
The match will be played in St Lucia, where damp conditions could be a factor. West Indies have a 6-5 record in T20Is at the venue, but they have lost both previous encounters with England there.
