England wrapped up a clean sweep in the three-match ODI series against West Indies with a commanding 7-wicket victory in the third ODI at The Oval. In a rain-affected encounter, the hosts chased down a revised target of 246 runs in just 29.4 overs, showcasing aggressive batting and efficient bowling to dominate throughout the match.
Match Summary: England Clinches Series 3-0
West Indies: 251/9 in 40 overs (rain-reduced innings)
England: 246/3 in 29.4 overs
Result: England won by 7 wickets (DLS Method)
With this win, England completed a 3-0 whitewash, asserting their dominance ahead of the upcoming ICC global events.
West Indies Innings: Rutherford and Motie Shine Amidst Collapse
West Indies found themselves in early trouble after losing three wickets for just 28 runs. However, Sherfane Rutherford played a composed knock of 70 runs, stabilizing the innings. The standout performer was Gudakesh Motie, who blasted 63 runs, featuring five boundaries and three sixes.
A crucial 91-run eighth-wicket stand between Motie and Alzarri Joseph (41) gave the Caribbean side a fighting total. But rain interruptions and a delayed start hampered their momentum.
England Batting: Jamie Smith Powers Record Start
England came out with intent and aggression. Jamie Smith, in only his second ODI, hammered a quick-fire 64 off 28 balls, marking his maiden ODI half-century. England’s innings exploded to 100 runs inside 8 overs, one of the fastest in the format’s history.
Ben Duckett contributed 58 runs, while Joe Root added 44, keeping the chase steady. The match was eventually finished in style by Harry Brook (26)* and Jos Buttler (41)*, with the England captain sealing victory with a towering six.
Bowling Highlights: Rashid Leads England's Attack
England’s bowlers shared the spoils in what was a solid team effort:
Adil Rashid: 3/40 – the pick of the bowlers
Matthew Potts, Saqib Mahmood, Brydon Carse: 2 wickets each
West Indies bowlers tried to counter England’s aggressive chase but had little success. Gudakesh Motie, Roston Chase, and Alzarri Joseph managed a wicket apiece, but couldn’t halt the hosts' momentum.
Key Match Moments
Delayed Start: A 30-minute delay occurred due to the West Indies team bus being stuck in London traffic.
Rain Interruption: A 90-minute rain break reduced the game to 40 overs per side.
Top-Order Collapse: West Indies slipped to 28/3 early on before a lower-order rescue act.
England's Lightning Start: 100 runs inside 8 overs set the tone for a smooth chase.
Dominant Finish: Buttler’s six capped off a clinical chase and sealed the series whitewash.
Final Word: England's Clean Sweep Reflects ODI Strength
With a 3-0 series win, England underlined their strength in the 50-over format. Emerging players like Jamie Smith impressed, while experienced heads such as Buttler and Rashid provided balance and leadership. The visitors, despite flashes of brilliance from Rutherford and Motie, were outplayed across all three games.
