In the fourth T20I in St Lucia on Saturday, the hosts successfully chased down a target of 219, causing England to lose for the first time in the five-match series. The defeat has been a learning experience for Jos Buttler’s youthful squad, even though they are ahead 3-0 in the series.
Phil Salt’s 55 off 35 balls and 21-year-old Jacob Bethell’s blistering unbeaten 62, which included five sixes, including three straight off Roston Chase, helped the visitors reach 218/5 in their allocated 20 overs.
But the Caribbean side had a great response. Opening combination Evin Lewis and Shai Hope launched their attack on the English bowlers following a cautious start in which they managed just five runs from the first two overs, including a maiden from Saqib Mahmood.
The hosts were well-positioned and ultimately led to their most successful T20 chase at home thanks to their 136-run partnership in just nine overs. Buttler, the captain of England, discussed the opposition’s strong performance and the team’s learning opportunity.
“The adversary must play well in order to score 219, whatever of the circumstances. The West Indies deserve praise for doing so. Perhaps the game would have been different if we had been able to take a wicket. Conditions such as these place a premium on your skill level and execution. You have to be on it and you get terrific surfaces when playing against elite international cricket sides. After the game, Buttler remarked, “It’s been a good eye-opener with the standards we need to have for ourselves and where we need to improve.”
Rehan Ahmed’s bravery allowed us to rejoin the game: Jos Buttler
The performance of teenage spinner Rehan Ahmed, who took three vital wickets, including Lewis and Nicholas Pooran, was one area of hope for England. Ahmed demonstrated his potential as England’s next top spinner by taking Adil Rashid’s place while he was rested.
His strongest qualities are his self-assurance, willingness to try new things, and desire for challenge. By being bold, taking chances, and utilising his variations, he helped us get back into the game. He has performed admirably. It’s encouraging to see him as the primary leg-spinner in the squad without Adil. Although Rash has been our team’s most valuable player, we need to get some players on board. For the rest of the bowling attack, not just Rehan, to experience what it’s like without Adil present,” Buttler continued.
Also Read: Twitter Reactions: West Indies chase down mammoth target to register 1st win in series
In the fifth Twenty20 International in the series, the Rovman Powell team will look to secure another consolation victory after achieving their first victory of the series.
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