In a Super Eight encounter at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, West Indies displayed a commanding performance both with the ball and the bat to defeat the USA by nine wickets. This victory not only keeps West Indies alive in the race for a spot in the semifinals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 but also significantly boosts their net run rate to +1.814, a remarkable turnaround from earlier deficits.

Stellar bowling performance by Roston Chase and Andre Russell

Opting to bat first after losing the toss, USA got off to a shaky start with early wickets falling. Steven Taylor departed early for just 2 runs, leaving the team reeling. However, Andries Gous and Nitish Kumar steadied the innings momentarily, adding 48 runs together.

Despite this partnership, USA struggled to maintain momentum as Roston Chase and Andre Russell unleashed a devastating bowling display. Both bowlers claimed three-wicket hauls, dismantling USA’s middle order. The American batting lineup faltered under the pressure, losing wickets at regular intervals. Milind Kumar and Shadley van Schalkwyk made brief contributions, but no batsman managed to make a substantial score. Ultimately, USA was bowled out for 128 runs in 19.5 overs, falling short of setting a competitive target for West Indies.

Shai Hope’s spectacular unbeaten 82

In response to USA’s total, West Indies’ batsmen approached the chase with confidence and aggression. Shai Hope, playing in his maiden T20 World Cup game, played a sensational innings. He anchored the chase brilliantly, scoring an unbeaten 82 runs off just 49 balls. Hope’s innings was marked by powerful strokes and calculated aggression, dominating the USA bowlers from the outset.

Hope formed crucial partnerships, including a pivotal 67-run stand with Johnson Charles (15) and a further 63*-run partnership with Nicholas Pooran (27*). His commanding presence at the crease ensured that West Indies comfortably chased down the target in just 10.5 overs, securing a comprehensive nine-wicket victory.

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