The first T20I between West Indies and England took place on November 9, 2024, at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. The match started at 7:00 PM local time, with both teams eager to gain an early advantage in the five-match T20I series.
Team Overviews
West Indies: West Indies entered the match with confidence after their recent 2-1 ODI series victory over England. Led by Rovman Powell, the team aimed to continue their strong form and secure a dominant start to the T20I series. The Windies were determined to showcase their aggressive batting and disciplined bowling.
England: England, led by Jos Buttler, were looking to bounce back from their ODI series defeat and make a strong start to the T20I series. Buttler’s return from injury added a boost to the team, and the visitors aimed to put up a competitive total and restrict West Indies to a manageable score.
Key Players
West Indies:
- Rovman Powell: The captain and a top-order batsman, Powell’s ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed was crucial for West Indies’ success.
- Nicholas Pooran: Known for his aggressive style, Pooran was expected to provide quick runs in the middle order.
- Akeal Hosein: The left-arm spinner, who took two wickets in the ODI series, was key to West Indies’ bowling attack.
- Gudakesh Motie: Another spinner, Motie’s mystery deliveries troubled the English batters.
England:
- Jos Buttler: The captain and a top-order batsman, Buttler’s return from injury was a significant boost for England. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed was crucial.
- Phil Salt: The wicketkeeper-batsman, known for his aggressive style, was expected to provide quick runs in the top order.
- Sam Curran: An experienced all-rounder, Curran’s contributions with both bat and ball were vital for England’s chances.
- Adil Rashid: The leg-spinner, known for his mystery deliveries, was key to England’s bowling attack.
Head-to-Head in T20
Before this match, West Indies and England had faced each other 30 times in T20Is. West Indies led the head-to-head record with 17 wins, while England had won 13 matches.
Probable Playing XI (Latest Squad and Captains)
West Indies:
- Brandon King
- Evin Lewis
- Nicholas Pooran (WK)
- Rovman Powell (C)
- Sherfane Rutherford
- Romario Shepherd
- Roston Chase
- Akeal Hosein
- Gudakesh Motie
- Shamar Joseph
- Terrance Hinds
England:
- Phil Salt (WK)
- Will Jacks
- Jos Buttler (C)
- Liam Livingstone
- Jacob Bethell
- Dan Mousley
- Sam Curran
- Jamie Overton
- Saqib Mahmood
- Adil Rashid
- Jofra Archer
Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Pitch Report
The pitch at Kensington Oval is known to be batting-friendly, offering good bounce and carry. The surface generally favours batters, with high-scoring encounters expected. However, bowlers can also find assistance, especially with the new ball under lights. Spinners are expected to play a crucial role in both innings.
Match Scenarios and Predictions
Given West Indies’ recent victory in the ODI series and their strong batting lineup, they were favoured to win the first T20I. However, England’s determination to bounce back and their experienced players meant that an upset was always possible.
Match Scenario: England won the toss and elected to bowl first, aiming to restrict West Indies to a manageable total. Phil Salt and Will Jacks provided a solid start, with Salt playing a crucial role in the powerplay. Jos Buttler and Liam Livingstone added quick runs in the middle overs, while Dan Mousley’s late surge propelled England to a competitive total of 182/9 in their 20 overs.
In response, West Indies started cautiously, with Brandon King and Evin Lewis providing a steady start. However, the spin duo of Adil Rashid and Sam Curran troubled the West Indian batters. Despite a late surge from Nicholas Pooran and Romario Shepherd, West Indies fell short, finishing at 180/8 in their 20 overs.
Match Prediction: England’s strong performance, particularly in batting and disciplined bowling, made them the favourites to win the first T20I. West Indies showed glimpses of brilliance, but consistency was key for them to pose a stronger challenge in the remaining matches.
