England vs West Indies 1st T20I 2025: England began their T20I series against West Indies with a solid 21-run victory in the opening match, thanks to a scintillating 96 from skipper Jos Buttler and a match-winning 4-wicket spell by Liam Dawson. The hosts now lead the three-match T20I series 1-0.
After winning the toss and electing to bat first, England posted an imposing total of 188/6 in their 20 overs. Captain Jos Buttler led from the front, smashing 96 runs off 59 balls, laced with 10 fours and 4 sixes. He fell just four runs short of what could have been his second T20I century but left a huge mark on the match. He received strong support from Jamie Smith, who chipped in with a quickfire 38 from 20 balls, and Jacob Bethell, who remained unbeaten on 23 off 23 balls.
Despite some impressive bowling from Romario Shepherd (2/33 in 4 overs) and Andre Russell (1/25), the West Indies bowlers struggled to contain the England batting unit on a batting-friendly pitch.
West Indies’ Chase Falls Short
In reply, West Indies could only manage 167/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Evin Lewis provided a fiery start, scoring 39 off just 23 balls, including five boundaries and two sixes. However, the visitors failed to sustain momentum, with key wickets falling at crucial stages.
Liam Dawson proved to be the game-changer with the ball. The left-arm spinner delivered an exceptional spell, finishing with figures of 4/20 in 4 overs, claiming the wickets of Johnson Charles, Andre Russell, and others to break the back of West Indies’ middle order. Jacob Bethell also contributed with the ball, picking up 2 wickets for 27 runs.
Roston Chase (24 off 20) and Johnson Charles (18 off 15) offered resistance, but the mounting required run rate and regular wickets saw the Windies fall 21 runs short.
Key Performances:
- Jos Buttler (ENG): 96 (59) – Missed a century but set the foundation with a captain’s knock.
- Liam Dawson (ENG): 4/20 – Crucial strikes that halted West Indies’ progress.
- Jamie Smith (ENG): 38 (20) – A useful cameo that kept the pressure on the bowlers.
- Evin Lewis (WI): 39 (23) – Explosive start but couldn’t carry on.
Player of the Match: Liam Dawson
Liam Dawson’s excellent spell earned him the Player of the Match award. His accurate, deceptive spin bowling under pressure turned the tide in England’s favor during West Indies’ chase.
Series Status:
With this win, England takes a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. The second match will be crucial for West Indies if they hope to stay alive in the series.
The second T20I is scheduled in Manchester on June 9, 2025, and promises to be an exciting encounter as West Indies look to bounce back while England aim to seal the series.
