England sealed a 3-1 series victory over the West Indies in the T20I series after the fifth and final match was abandoned due to heavy rain in St Lucia. Play was called off after just five overs, with the hosts at 44 without loss.
Evin Lewis and Shai Hope were looking in good touch, with Lewis unbeaten on 29 from 15 balls, including two sixes and three fours. Hope had made 14 off 10 balls. The match came to an abrupt halt as a storm rolled in, just as Lewis was set to undergo concussion checks after being struck on the helmet by a bouncer.
Despite the damp ending, England had already secured the series, having won three of the previous four matches. The final match promised another exciting contest after a thrilling game on Saturday, where West Indies chased down a record 219 with ease, powered by their opening pair. However, the rain spoiled the grand finale.
England’s Jofra Archer and John Turner both bowled in the match, with Turner conceding 22 runs in his two overs and Archer going for 16 from two. Jamie Overton, who played but didn’t bowl the previous day, gave away just five runs in his sole over.
The standout performer of the series was England’s Saqib Mahmood, who took nine wickets at an average of 10.55, including a match-winning 4-for-43 in the first T20I. Mahmood was named Player of the Series for his consistent contributions, especially in the powerplay.
Phil Salt finished as the top run-scorer for England with 162 runs, including an unbeaten 103 in the first match. His teammate, 21-year-old Jacob Bethell, impressed with 127 runs at a blistering strike rate of 173.97.
Despite the rain, England’s solid all-round performance throughout the series gave them a comprehensive 3-1 win over the West Indies.
