Phil Salt’s Century Propels England to Record T20 Total, Leveling Series Against West Indies

In a dazzling display of power-hitting, Phil Salt’s consecutive centuries propel England to their highest T20 international total. Salt’s remarkable innings of 119 off 57 balls, featuring 10 sixes, guides England to a record-setting total of 267-3 against West Indies. This extraordinary feat not only secures a 75-run victory but also levels the T20 series at 2-2.

Buttler and Livingstone Contribute

Captain Jos Buttler adds to the onslaught with a quick-fire 55 off 29 balls, while Liam Livingstone remains unbeaten with a brisk 54 from 21 deliveries. Their aggressive contributions ensure England’s dominance throughout the innings, leaving West Indies with a challenging target at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad.

West Indies respond with an entertaining chasing effort, accumulating 87 runs in the first six overs. Despite their aggressive approach, England’s disciplined bowling and consistent wicket-taking disrupt the hosts’ rhythm. West Indies eventually falls short, reaching 192 all out, as England’s bowlers showcase resilience and strategic breakthroughs.

Having trailed 2-0 in the series, England stages a remarkable comeback to level the T20 contest at 2-2. The series decider is set to unfold at the same venue on Thursday, promising another thrilling encounter between the two cricketing giants.

Key Numbers from England’s Record Innings

• England’s 267-3 surpasses their previous men’s T20 international record of 241-3 against New Zealand in 2019.
• Phil Salt’s 119 becomes the highest score by an England men’s batter in T20 internationals, surpassing Alex Hales’ 116 not out.
• Salt is the first England men’s batter to achieve two T20 international centuries, showcasing his consistency and dominance.
• The innings ranks as the fifth-highest total in all men’s T20 internationals, highlighting England’s batting prowess.
• Despite facing a daunting target, West Indies displays power-packed performances, with Nicholas Pooran and Sherfane Rutherford contributing entertaining cameos.
• Andre Russell’s dynamic half-century offers late hope, but England’s bowlers maintain composure to secure the win. With the series leveled, anticipation builds for the decider on Thursday. Both teams aim to secure victory and claim the T20 series title, promising another high-scoring and closely contested encounter.

Former England bowler Steven Finn praises Phil Salt for setting the tone and commends England’s overall approach to white-ball cricket. West Indies captain Rovman Powell acknowledges the challenge of playing against world-class players and looks ahead to the series decider. England captain Jos Buttler expresses pride in the team’s character, bravery, and skill level, emphasizing the confidence in the changing room.