In a scintillating display of cricket, West Indies showcased their prowess and annihilated UAE in the first ODI of the three-match series in Sharjah.
Led by Brandon King’s magnificent century and Keemo Paul’s exceptional bowling, the visitors chased down a formidable target of 203 with a staggering 88 balls to spare, stamping their authority on the match.
This game marked the beginning of a new era for the West Indies under the captaincy of Shai Hope and the guidance of head coach Daren Sammy.
The team demonstrated composure and determination while facing the challenges posed by the testing conditions of a pitch offering turn and uneven bounce. This resounding victory serves as a morale booster as they prepare for the upcoming ODI World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe.
Brandon King stole the spotlight with a scintillating knock, scoring his maiden ODI century off just 107 deliveries. The vice-captain not only anchored the innings but also forged a crucial 91-run partnership with Shamarh Brooks, effectively dismantling UAE’s hopes.
West Indies commenced their chase with a brisk tempo, maintaining a consistent run rate throughout the innings. Despite the challenging pitch and humid conditions, the batsmen displayed resilience.
After an early setback with the dismissal of Johnson Charles for 24, Shamarh Brooks provided crucial support with his patient knock of 44 off 58 deliveries.
Although left-arm spinner Aayan Khan managed to impede West Indies for a brief period, King’s dominance prevailed. Alongside Keacy Carty, King formed a formidable partnership, contributing 47 runs off his bat out of the 54-run stand.
Shai Hope, displaying his proficiency, sealed the deal for his team by smashing two consecutive sixes off Meiyyappan in the 36th over. This victory not only highlighted the talent and depth in West Indies’ batting lineup but also showcased their adaptability to diverse playing conditions.
UAE’s innings began on a sour note as they lost both their openers within the first three overs. Keemo Paul struck a crucial blow in his second ball, dismissing the home captain Muhammad Waseem for a duck.
Dominic Drakes, making his West Indies debut alongside spin all-rounder Kavem Hodge, continued the onslaught by claiming his maiden ODI wicket, breaking through Aryansh Sharma’s defense.
Despite the early setbacks, Vriitya Aravind exhibited composure and steadied the innings with a resilient knock of 40 off 70 deliveries.
He formed a crucial partnership of 31 runs with Rameez Shahzad for the third wicket until Rameez was forced to retire hurt in the 12th over due to a blow on his helmet. Aravind’s innings also earned him the distinction of becoming UAE’s highest run-getter in ODIs.
UAE’s middle order succumbed to pressure as they suffered a collapse, losing four wickets for just 29 runs after being 100 for 2. Cariah’s economical spell in the middle overs restricted UAE’s scoring, conceding a mere 26 runs in his seven overs.
However, UAE made a valiant recovery in the final phase of the innings, courtesy of Ali Naseer’s fighting fifty. The debutant exhibited determination and resilience, single-handedly pushing UAE past the 200-mark. Naseer’s 58 off 52 balls, including five boundaries and two sixes, came to an end when he fell victim to Keemo Paul’s well-disguised off-cutter.
West Indies bowling attack displayed discipline and skill, with Dominic Drakes, Odean Smith, and Yannic Cariah claiming two wickets each, while Roston Chase contributed with one wicket.
Overall, West Indies’ dominant performance in both batting and bowling departments set the stage for an exhilarating series against UAE. The visitors’ confidence and form bode well as they embark on their journey to qualify for the ODI World Cup.
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