Tag: WestIndies

England’s Jos Buttler unleashed a blistering 83 off 45 balls to power his team to a commanding seven-wicket victory over the West Indies in the second T20I in Barbados. The victory gives England a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

Buttler’s innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, as he smashed eight fours and six sixes to leave the West Indies bowlers helpless. The skipper’s exceptional batting display earned him the well-deserved “Man of the Match” award.

England’s chase got off to a shaky start when Phil Salt was dismissed on the first ball of the innings. However, Buttler’s arrival at the crease injected immediate momentum into the innings. The Windies bowling attack, missing key players like Alzarri Joseph and Andre Russell, struggled to contain Buttler’s onslaught.

Debutant seamer Terrance Hinds, in particular, had a challenging introduction to international cricket, facing the brunt of Buttler’s aggression. Buttler seemed destined for his second T20I century, but after being dropped by Sherfane Rutherford in the 13th over, he was caught out on the very next ball, attempting another big shot.

Will Jacks provided solid support to Buttler during their 129-run partnership for the second wicket. Jacks contributed 38 runs off 29 balls, hitting five fours and one six, before falling to Romario Shepherd.

Earlier, the West Indies innings were bolstered by Rovman Powell’s knock of 43 off 41 balls and Romario Shepherd’s quickfire 22 off 12 balls. Liam Livingstone was the pick of the England bowlers, finishing with figures of two for 16.

England’s dominant performance puts them in a strong position to secure a series victory in the remaining three matches, which will be played in St. Lucia, starting next Thursday. The victory also offers England a chance to avenge their 2-1 defeat to the West Indies in the preceding ODI series.

Catches Win Matches: Motie’s Spectacular Catch Stuns Buttler in T20I Opener

In the thrilling first T20I between West Indies and England at the Kensington Oval in Barbados, a breathtaking catch by Gudakesh Motie turned the tide of the match. England captain Jos Buttler, returning from a four-month injury layoff, was the unfortunate victim of Motie’s brilliance.

After winning the toss and electing to bat first, West Indies posted a competitive 182/9, thanks to Saqib Mahmood’s 4/34 and Adil Rashid’s 3/32. England’s chase got off to a solid start, with Buttler looking in good touch.

However, in the seventh over, Motie produced a moment of magic. Facing a short, slower delivery from Romario Shepherd, Buttler cut the ball towards third-man. Motie, positioned slightly wide, reacted with lightning speed, sprinting to his left and extending his left hand.

In a gravity-defying moment, Motie snatched the ball out of thin air, inches from the boundary ropes. The official broadcaster captured the stunning catch on video, showcasing Motie’s athleticism and quick reflexes.

Buttler’s dismissal proved to be a turning point in the match. Despite Philip Salt’s unbeaten 103 and Jacob Bethell’s unbeaten 58, England were unable to maintain the momentum. The Windies bowlers kept the pressure on, and England eventually fell short by 8 wickets.

Motie’s catch not only showcased his exceptional fielding skills but also highlighted the importance of fielding in modern cricket. With fitness levels at an all-time high, fielders are now capable of making spectacular saves and catches that can change the course of a match.