In a dramatic turn of events, West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph stormed off the field mid-over during the final ODI against England, only to return and play a crucial role in his team’s eventual victory. Despite the unusual on-field disagreement with his captain Shai Hope, the West Indies secured a resounding 2-1 series win, chasing down England’s target with ease at Kensington Oval in Barbados.
Early Drama on Field ft Alzarri Joseph
The series decider kicked off with West Indies captain Shai Hope opting to bowl first after winning the toss. The decision quickly paid off as the hosts’ pace attack left England floundering at 1-10 in just the fourth over. But tension soon surfaced between Joseph and Hope during a discussion over field placements. After dismissing England’s Jordan Cox with a sharp bouncer, Joseph continued his spell but walked off the field at the end of the over, visibly frustrated.
West Indies coach Darren Sammy was seen talking to Joseph on the sidelines in an attempt to calm the pacer down. Joseph returned to complete his 10-over spell, finishing with 2-45, while former England cricketer Mark Butcher, commenting from the sidelines, expressed disappointment at Joseph’s actions, stating, “Many is the time… you have a disagreement about something on the field. But you work that out behind closed doors or get on with your job.”
England’s Struggles and Brief Resurgence
The English innings was marked by early setbacks, losing four wickets with only 24 runs on the board. Matthew Forde’s disciplined bowling (3-35) and Romario Shepherd’s support (2-33) kept England’s top order in check.
England managed a partial recovery with Phil Salt (74) and Dan Mousley (57) steadying the innings, while Jofra Archer’s rapid 38 off 17 balls at the end added a touch of flair, pushing England to a respectable 263-8 from 50 overs.
West Indies Dominate the Chase
In response, the West Indies’ openers set the tone early, with Brandon King launching two boundaries off Archer to establish the team’s aggressive approach. King went on to score a scintillating 102, while Keacy Carty’s maiden century (128*) further solidified the West Indies’ position.
Their 209-run partnership for the second wicket left England without answers, as Reece Topley’s late dismissal of King was England’s only breakthrough in the second half of the innings. Carty stayed at the crease, leading the West Indies to a comfortable victory with seven overs to spare.
Looking Ahead to West Indies vs England T20 Series
With the ODI series wrapped up, the two teams are set to face each other again in a five-match T20 series, beginning Saturday at the Bridgetown Oval. The West Indies will look to carry their momentum into the shorter format, while England will aim for redemption.
This hard-fought series has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting showdown in the upcoming T20 clashes.
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