November 10, 2024: Phil Salt’s explosive century guided England to an impressive eight-wicket victory over the West Indies in the first T20I of their five-match series at Kensington Oval on Sunday.
Salt’s unbeaten 103 off just 54 balls, featuring nine boundaries and six sixes, was the standout performance of the match. His brilliant knock came at a blistering strike rate of 190.74 and earned him the Player of the Match award.
Chasing 183, England got off to a flying start with Salt and Will Jacks. The pair quickly put on a 50-run partnership, with Salt’s aggressive batting setting the tone. Salt reached his half-century in just 25 balls, including a massive six off left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie. England’s opening partnership was broken at 73 when Jacks fell for 17. Skipper Jos Buttler, making his return after injury, was dismissed for a duck on the very first ball he faced.
With Buttler’s departure, debutant Jacob Bethell joined Salt at the crease. Together, they continued to push the scoring rate, reaching the 100-run mark by the 10th over. Salt and Bethell added 107 runs in just 61 balls, with Bethell contributing a solid 58* off 36 balls, including five fours and two sixes. The duo’s unbeaten partnership ensured England cruised to victory with 3.5 overs to spare.
Earlier, the West Indies posted a total of 182/9 in their 20 overs. Nicholas Pooran (38), Romario Shepherd (35*), and Gudakesh Motie (33) were the main contributors with the bat. Saqib Mahmood was the standout bowler for England, claiming 4/34 in his four overs, while Adil Rashid also impressed with 3/32.
England’s successful chase was built on Salt’s fireworks, and they secured the win with ease.