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In a gripping encounter at the iconic Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, England roared back to life in the three-match ODI series against West Indies, levelling the leg with a convincing win. The clash witnessed stellar performances from both sides, but it was Sam Curran‘s bowling brilliance and Will Jacks‘ batting prowess that stole the spotlight.
Brilliant batting display from Shai Hope and Sam Curran’s fightback
Asked to bat first, West Indies posted a competitive total of 202 runs in 39.4 overs, setting the stage for a challenging chase. Shai Hope led the charge with a crucial innings of 69 runs off 69 balls, showcasing his class with six boundaries and a six. Sherfane Rutherford added significant contributions, tallying 62 runs off 79 deliveries. However, England’s bowling unit, spearheaded by Curran and Liam Livingstone, put up an impressive show, with Curran claiming three wickets and Livingstone matching the feat.
Will Jacks and Jos Buttler shine with the bat for England
Facing a target of 203, England displayed a dominant batting performance, reaching the mark with 13.1 overs to spare. Jacks emerged as the star of the innings, crafting a brilliant 73 runs off 72 balls. Jos Buttler (58 runs off 45 balls) and Harry Brook (43 runs off 49 balls) also played vital roles in England’s successful run chase. The balanced batting lineup ensured victory with six wickets in hand, showcasing their resilience against a determined West Indies bowling attack.
West Indies bowling efforts
Despite their best efforts, West Indies bowlers struggled to make significant breakthroughs to defend the modest total. Gudakesh Motie emerged as the most successful bowler for West Indies, claiming two crucial wickets. However, their collective efforts fell short in the face of England’s determined pursuit of the target.
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Player of the Match
Curran’s exceptional bowling performance earned him the well-deserved ‘Player of the Match’ award. His ability to pick up crucial wickets at key junctures proved pivotal in restricting West Indies and setting up England’s successful run chase.
Series decider awaits
With the series now level at 1-1, the stage is set for a thrilling series decider in the upcoming third ODI. Both teams will be eager to capitalize on the momentum gained from their respective victories, promising cricket enthusiasts another enthralling contest.
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
Surrey boys flourish to bring England all square in the West Indies 🚀🏴
Will Jacks top scored with 73, as Sam Curran (3/33) & Gus Atkinson (2/28) shine with the ball 💥
🤎 | #SurreyCricket pic.twitter.com/W4qkJ6tsYu
— Surrey Cricket (@surreycricket) December 6, 2023
Will Jacks showing his class in the Caribbean, failed in 1st Odi.. came back strongly in 2nd Odi, smashed 73 in chase of 203.. well played 👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/3JUCiELabO
— Kohli.𝕏E (@141ovalclassic) December 7, 2023
England won the 2nd odi by 6 wicket
Series 1-1 upto barbados
Excellent knock by will jacks
Congratulation My fav Buttler for 5000 odi runs and for comeback into the form 🥳🥳#ENGvsWI #wivseng #WIvsEng #antigua pic.twitter.com/gv7Cuo4lVn— Kayani 🇵🇰 🇮🇹 (@kayR98) December 6, 2023
Sam Curran conceded the most runs in an ODI for England in the first ODI
He takes 3/33 in the second and wins the Player of the Match Award.
Make your comeback stronger than the setback? #WIvENG
— Omkar Mankame (@Oam_16) December 7, 2023
England leveled the series against West Indies with a commanding victory in the second ODI. Jos Buttler and Will Jacks played stellar innings, both reaching impressive half-centuries during the successful run chase! #ENGvWI #WIvENG pic.twitter.com/CLMlOo1sg3
— Rimsha Khan (@Rimmi5655) December 7, 2023
Will jacks and Harry brook are match winners on their own. Future of England cricket if stay consistent.🤔🔥🏏#HarryBrook #Willjacks
— yashwant gurjar (@YashwantG27) December 7, 2023
Sam Curran needed proper windies hammering to get into rhythm lmfao
— Anon (@EpsilonAnon) December 6, 2023
Sam Curran on Sunday goes for zero wickets and 98 runs the most by an English bowlers and today he takes three wickets with the new ball. #engvswi
— shaone (@shaonedon) December 6, 2023
Sam Curran had one of his worst performances last game and today, he has 3-19
That's cricket for you#WIvENG
— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) December 6, 2023
Two contrasting games for Sam Curran this series.
England’s most expensive spell ever in game one. 0-98.
Now broke WI top order with 3 for 19 in game two.
Hopefully a return of the Sam we once knew.. let’s see. 🤞
— Cricketologist (@AMP86793444) December 6, 2023
Sam Curran makes things happen! Funny how everyone keeps doubting him and he keeps proving them wrong😂
3 wicket haul! 👏🏼 pic.twitter.com/0G0e1sUhxu— Snap (@ObsessionSnap) December 6, 2023