In a high-stakes encounter at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, Joe Root delivered a batting masterclass, guiding England to a thrilling 3-wicket win over the West Indies in the 2nd ODI. With this victory, England clinched the three-match series 2-0, with one game left to play.
West Indies Post a Competitive Total of 308
Opting to bat first, the West Indies got off to a mixed start, losing an early wicket but quickly recovering through a stellar 141-run partnership between Brandon King and Keacy Carty. King’s fluent strokeplay complemented Carty’s composed approach, with Carty going on to score a magnificent 104 – his second ODI century against England.
Skipper Shai Hope added a solid 43, but a sudden middle-order collapse derailed West Indies' momentum. They were bowled out for 308 in 47.4 overs, with England’s Saqib Mahmood and Adil Rashid playing pivotal roles in cleaning up the tail. Mahmood’s clever variations in the death overs proved vital in containing the total.
Joe Root’s Unbeaten 166* Anchors England's Chase
England's response began on shaky ground, with both Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett falling for ducks early in the innings. At 2/2, pressure loomed, but Joe Root stood tall amidst the crisis. Combining finesse with determination, the England captain crafted a sensational 166 not out off 139 balls, laced with 21 boundaries and 2 sixes.
Support came at critical moments — Harry Brook chipped in with a stylish 47, while Will Jacks contributed a valuable 49. Their partnerships helped stabilize the innings and shift the momentum. Despite periodic wickets, Root's composure and intelligent strike rotation ensured that England chased down the target in 48.5 overs, finishing at 312/7.
Key Moments That Defined the Match
- 🏏 Early Collapse: England were rocked early with two quick wickets, putting their chase in jeopardy.
- 🌟 Keacy Carty’s Century: The West Indies batter's 104 gave his team a commanding base.
- 🎯 Saqib Mahmood’s Late Burst: His disciplined death bowling halted the West Indies' progress and set up a manageable target.
- 👑 Root’s Batting Brilliance: A flawless innings under pressure reaffirmed his stature as one of the game’s finest chase-masters.
England Clinch the Series
With this win, England take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, showcasing resilience and depth in both departments. Joe Root's performance not only earned him the Player of the Match award but also solidified his legacy as a dependable anchor in white-ball cricket.
As the teams head into the third and final ODI, England will look to complete a clean sweep, while West Indies aim to salvage pride.
Final Scorecard Summary:
West Indies – 308 all out (47.4 overs)
Keacy Carty 104, Brandon King 50+
Saqib Mahmood 3 wickets
England – 312/7 (48.5 overs)
Joe Root 166* (139), Will Jacks 49
Alzarri Joseph and Akeal Hosein picked up 2 wickets each.
