West Indies clinched a thrilling victory, narrowly overcoming India by four runs in the opening Twenty20 International. India, chasing a modest 150-run target, started well at 77-3, with debutant Tilak Varma’s impressive 39 and Suryakumar Yadav’s 21. However, the momentum shifted as India lost six wickets for only 68 runs, succumbing to pressure.
Shimron Hetmyer, back in international cricket after a year, stole the spotlight with three vital catches and a crucial run-out of Arshdeep Singh in the final over, sealing the low-scoring affair. Young gun Tilak Varma, known for his IPL exploits, dazzled with three sixes in a quick 22-ball innings. His innings concluded when caught by Hetmyer off Romario Shepherd, leaving India at 77 runs.
Despite efforts from skipper Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Arshdeep Singh, India struggled on the slow pitch. Shimron Hetmyer’s exceptional fielding and West Indies’ collective performance secured a memorable victory.
Jason Holder’s impressive figures of 2-19 earned him the man of the match title. The series continues with matches in Bridgetown and concludes in Lauderhill, Florida, adding intensity to the cricket rivalry between the teams.