The West Indies secured a resounding 62-run victory over Ireland in the decisive third T20I, clinching the series 1-0.
WI vs IRE: The West Indies delivered a crushing defeat to Ireland on their home turf in the T20 International. After the first two matches were washed out by rain, the third became a crucial encounter, with both teams vying for victory. Ireland, winning the toss, opted to bowl first, a decision that ultimately backfired.
The West Indies unleashed a blistering batting display, amassing a massive 256/5 in their 20 overs. Opener Evin Lewis spearheaded the onslaught, smashing 91 runs off just 44 balls, decimating the Irish bowlers.
Evin Lewis's Demolition, Bowlers Left Reeling
West Indies' explosive opener Evin Lewis once again proved why he's called the 'sledgehammer' of T20 cricket. He plundered 91 runs off 44 balls, tearing apart the Irish bowling attack. His innings included 7 fours and 8 towering sixes, resulting in a strike rate of 206.82. He relentlessly attacked from the powerplay to the middle overs, offering no respite to the opposition.
Rovman Powell (51 runs, 27 balls) and captain Shai Hope (51 runs, 35 balls) also contributed half-centuries, propelling the team to a substantial total. Another highlight of the West Indies innings was the impressive debut of Keacy Carty, who blazed 49 runs off 22 balls, smashing 4 fours and 4 sixes, pushing the score comfortably past 250 in the final overs.
Liam McCarthy's Inglorious Record
While the West Indies batting performance was impressive, the Irish bowlers, particularly debutant Liam McCarthy, endured a nightmare. McCarthy conceded 81 runs in his four overs, recording the second most expensive spell in T20I history. Only Gambia's Musa Joberteh (93 runs) has conceded more in a single T20I innings.
This list also includes Sri Lanka's Kasun Rajitha, who conceded 75 runs against Australia. Liam's performance is a significant concern for Ireland, especially considering it was a home game.
Ireland's Feeble Batting Response
Chasing 257, Ireland never truly settled into the chase. While they played some aggressive shots, regular wickets hampered their progress. Harry Tector (43 runs) and captain Andrew Balbirnie (36 runs) offered some resistance, but the pressure mounted consistently. Ultimately, Ireland managed only 194/7 in their 20 overs.
For the West Indies, Akeal Hosein, Oshane Thomas, and Gudakesh Motie bowled economical spells and picked up wickets, ensuring Ireland remained firmly out of contention. This victory secured a 1-0 T20I series win for the West Indies. While the first two matches were abandoned due to rain, the Caribbean team displayed complete dominance in the final match, outplaying the hosts in all departments.
