WI vs IND: 5th T20I Review – West Indies clinch series win

The five-match T20I series between the West Indies and India finally came to an end, with the Rovman Powell-led side clinching the series after winning the fifth and final T20I.

The game began with India coming in to bat first after winning the toss. The side’s top-order woes continued as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill were sent packing early for five and nine runs, respectively. However, star batter Suryakumar Yadav put forth a brilliant performance with the bat. Scoring 61 runs in 45 deliveries, the 32-year-old’s knock stabilised the innings for India.

Furthermore, with Tilak Varma’s 27-run push and the middle order’s valiant effort, India posted 165 runs on the board in the first innings. Speaking of the West Indies, Romario Shepherd was undoubtedly the star of the first innings. Taking four wickets and conceding 31 runs in four overs, Shepherd’s spell was crucial in limiting India to a reasonable total. Akeal Hosein and Jason Holder took two wickets each, with Roston Chase striking once. 

Nicholas Pooran-Brandon King prove too much to handle for India during run chase

Aiming to chase down a target of 166 runs in the second innings with the T20I series on the line. The West Indies’ top order put together a fabulous performance. After the early dismissal of opener Kyle Mayers, Brandon King and Nicholas Pooran finished the job for their side.

Both contributed to an exceptional partnership, which was crucial in winning the match and the series as well. Pooran scored 47 runs in 35 deliveries but had to eventually depart in the dying stages.

However, Brandon King stood strong and won the game for his side by scoring 85* runs in 55 deliveries. Furthermore, Shai Hope added 22* runs on the board as well. The Windies, who had struggled quite a lot in recent months made a statement and proved their worth by clinching the T20I series against a comparatively strong Indian team.