England’s first match since their World Cup disappointment ended in defeat, as the West Indies snatched a four-wicket win in a dramatic ODI series opener in Antigua.
Less than a month on from England’s limp world title defence in India, where they were eliminated in the group stage after six losses in their nine matches, Jos Buttler’s much-changed line-up were dismissed for 325 with the final ball of the innings after Harry Brook top-scored with 71.
Buttler’s side were seemingly cruising to victory when the hosts fell to 213-5 with less than 12 overs remaining, only for West Indies captain Shai Hope and big-hitting Romario Shepherd to produce a quickfire sixth-wicket stand to set up a grandstand finish.
Romario Shepherd fired 48 from 27 deliveries for the hosts
Shepherd made 48 and put on 89 with Hope, who finished unbeaten on 109 and ended the innings with back-to-back sixes, as West Indies chased down their victory target in dramatic fashion and with seven balls to spare.
More to follow…
What’s next?
The series stays in Antigua for the second ODI, taking place on Wednesday at the same venue (5.30pm start), before the third and final ODI is played in Barbados on Saturday (5.30pm start).
A five-match T20 series then begins in Barbados on December 12, with two games in Grenada (December 14 and 16) and two more in Trinidad and Tobago (December 19 and 21). Watch all the best live sport and more with NOW.
