Shai Hope powers West Indies to 9-wicket victory

First Innings – USA Batting:

The USA’s innings started poorly with the early loss of opener Steven Taylor in the second over, caught by Roston Chase off Andre Russell. However, Andries Gous and Nitish Kumar put together a solid partnership of 48 runs during the powerplay. Their stand was broken when Kumar was trapped lbw attempting a reverse sweep against Gudakesh Motie

Gous continued to bat aggressively but fell to Shai Hope at long-on trying to hit Alzarri Joseph for a big shot. The USA captain, Aaron Jones, briefly counter-attacked with a six but was soon bowled by Roston Chase, leaving the USA struggling at 66-4. Chase further dismantled the USA batting lineup by taking the wickets of Corey Anderson and Harmeet Singh, achieving his T20I career-best figures of 3-19 from four overs.

Despite a late effort from Milind Kumar, who scored 19 from 21 balls, and a brief cameo from Ali Khan, who hit his first T20I runs with a six, the USA were bowled out for 128 in 19.5 overs.

Second Innings – West Indies Batting:

Chasing 129 for victory, West Indies had a blazing start with Shai Hope leading the charge. Hope’s explosive knock included eight sixes, enabling West Indies to reach their target in just 10.5 overs. He was well-supported, and the Caribbean side cruised to 130/1, sealing the win with 9.1 overs to spare.

This victory was crucial for West Indies, keeping their hopes alive in the tournament after both teams had lost their opening Super Eights matches (West Indies to England and the USA to South Africa). The USA’s early exit from the tournament was confirmed with this defeat, while West Indies remained in contention for a semi-final spot.