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England registered a gripping four-wicket victory over West Indies in the second T20 International, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. In a high-scoring encounter at the County Ground, England successfully chased down a challenging target of 197 with nine balls to spare, thanks to vital contributions throughout their batting lineup and a crucial late surge.
West Indies innings: Explosive start and late blitz
Electing to bowl first after winning the toss, England faced a strong batting performance from the West Indies. Openers Johnson Charles (47 off 39) and Shai Hope (49 off 38) laid a solid foundation, showcasing a mix of classical strokes and power-hitting. However, it was the late onslaught that truly propelled the West Indies total. Rovman Powell’s explosive 34 off just 15 balls, followed by a sensational 29 off 9 deliveries from Jason Holder, including three sixes, ensured the visitors posted a formidable 196/6 in their 20 overs. Roston Chase also added a quickfire 6 off 1 ball, ending the innings with a six.
For England, Player of the Match Luke Wood was the standout bowler, claiming 2 wickets for just 25 runs from his four overs, a commendable effort on a batting-friendly surface.
Well, that is some start! 😱
Luke Wood strikes first ball of the match! ☝@lwood_95 | #ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/e1TQiQGv5N
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 8, 2025
Jacob Bethell (1/24) and Brydon Carse (1/42) also picked up a wicket each, but Adil Rashid had an expensive outing, conceding 59 runs for his solitary wicket.
England’s powerful pursuit: Batting depth shines
Chasing 197, England’s innings saw a flurry of quick runs and crucial partnerships. While Jamie Smith fell early, Ben Duckett (30 off 18) provided a brisk start. Captain Jos Buttler led from the front with a well-compiled 47 off 36 balls, anchoring the chase in the middle overs. Harry Brook continued the momentum with a fluent 34 off 20 deliveries.
However, it was the explosive hitting in the latter part of the innings that sealed the deal for England. Jacob Bethell hammered 26 runs off a mere 10 balls, including three sixes, while Tom Banton unleashed a brilliant unbeaten 30 off just 11 deliveries, ensuring England crossed the finish line in 18.3 overs.
The West Indies bowlers toiled hard but struggled to contain the English batters. Alzarri Joseph picked up two wickets but was expensive, conceding 45 runs. Akeal Hosein (1/33) and Jason Holder (1/30) were more economical, while Romario Shepherd and Roston Chase also chipped in with a wicket each.
Tom Banton's fireworks take England home
Scorecard: https://t.co/q8XCCzlkwZ#cricket #ENGvENG #2ndT20I #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/Gc6TCa1VGl
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) June 9, 2025
This four-wicket victory, following their 21-run win in the first T20I, has given England an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. The teams will now head to Southampton for the third and final T20I on Tuesday, June 10, with England looking to complete a series whitewash.
Also READ: Latest ICC Rankings
