T20 World Cup: Phil Salt’s Explosive Knock Powers England to Decisive Victory over West Indies
October 22, 2022 – England delivered a statement victory in their T20 World Cup Super 8s opener, defeating host nation West Indies by eight wickets in a high-scoring affair in Saint Lucia. Phil Salt’s blistering unbeaten 87 off just 47 balls, including six boundaries in a single over, spearheaded England’s successful run chase of 181.
Jonny Bairstow provided able support with an unbeaten 48 off 26 deliveries, as the duo’s unbroken 97-run third-wicket stand from just 44 balls sealed the win with 15 balls to spare. Earlier, West Indies posted a challenging 180-4 in their 20 overs, with Johnson Charles (38), Rovman Powell (36), and Nicholas Pooran (36) leading the way. However, the England bowlers, led by the economical Adil Rashid (1-21) and Moeen Ali (1-15), kept the hosts in check.
Salt’s pyrotechnics were the highlight of the chase, as he smashed three sixes and as many fours in a single over off West Indies seamer Romario Shepherd, turning the tide in England’s favor. Bairstow also played a crucial role, striking three boundaries in succession off left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein during a pivotal 15th over.
“It was a fantastic performance from the team. We showed great character to bounce back after the West Indies posted a strong total.” – Phil Salt, Player of the Match
The win puts England top of Super 8s Group 2, ahead of South Africa on net run-rate, as they gear up to face the Proteas on Friday. For the West Indies, the loss was a setback, and they will look to bounce back when they take on the USA in Barbados on Saturday.
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