England hit new low as brutal West Indies and Shai Hope tear into Sam Curran.
Losing six games in the World Cup was bad enough. Now, England’s one-day international side have added an unwanted encore: defeat to a side who did not even qualify. West Indies, vanquished by Zimbabwe, Netherlands and Scotland in the World Cup qualifiers five months ago, added to the turmoil facing England by chasing down 326 at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
For one man juggling the triple responsibilities of batting, wicketkeeping and captaincy, the first one-day international since the World Cup provided a welcome harbinger of better days to come. But while Jos Buttler stumbled to a 13-ball three and then watched his new-look bowling attack mislay their line and length, Shai Hope anchored West Indies’ run chase sumptuously.
Then, with victory in sight, Hope unfurled a stunning crescendo. Brydon Carse was launched over midwicket for six, taking the runs required beneath 30. As Sam Curran sought to defend 19 from the penultimate over, he invitingly served up a full toss, pummelled for another six. In vain, Curran dragged his length back.
Blogger: Curran bowled one over from around the wicket and caused some problems to the batsmen - then, inexplicably - opted to revert to bowling from over the wicket for the key overs. Bizarre and match-losing!
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