It is a good time for West Indian cricket at the moment, with both the men’s and women’s sides reaching the World T20 finals in India. The ladies edged out an in-form New Zealand side winning by 6 runs in Mumbai, whilst the men stunned the hosts in a rollercoaster contest, which saw the Windies take the win by 7 wickets.
The ladies have reached the final for the first time in the competition’s history, having been losing semi-finalist in their previous four attempts. The victory set up a final on Sunday with Australia, who themselves impressed with a win over England in their semi on Wednesday.
Windies captain Stephanie Taylor lead from the front scoring an important 25 and crucially claiming 4 wickets. But the star of the show was Brittany Cooper, who smashed 61 off 48 balls to steer the Caribbean side to an historic victory.
Their male counterparts were also involved in a fascinating spectacle against the hosts, which saw the visitors clinch victory in dramatic fashion with just 3 balls left to spare.
India posted a very respectable total of 193 with the man of the moment, Virat Kohli starring with an unbeaten 89 (47).
He also impressed later on in the game, in a less familiar bowling role, breaking up a strong partnership between Charles and Simmons, just as the Windies were taking control of the game.
With the West Indians up against the lively Indian crowd and also a pretty formidable bowling attack, it was up to the influential Chris Gayle to lead the chase. Gayle duly failed to deliver as he was dismissed early for 6, and was soon followed by fellow big hitter Marlon Samuels, to leave India in a command position.
The game turned with the introduction of Lendl Simmons, who was a late call-up for the Caribbean side. He smashed a match-winning 81 off 51 balls on his home IPL ground, and was well supported by opener Johnson Charles who contributed with a knock of 52 (31).
All-rounder Andre Russell blasted West Indies into yet another final with one of many huge sixes to set up an exciting showdown against a confident England side.
The English will be looking for a different result as Chris Gayle inspired West Indies to a victory in both of the sides opening game of the tournament.
Both of Sunday’s finals have all the components to make great viewing. Additionally, there is the opportunity for the West Indian sides to make history, which would add further success to the title claimed by the Under 19’s Men’s team earlier this year.