In a thrilling second T20I match at Bristol’s County Ground, England’s Tom Banton played a pivotal role in turning the game around to secure a 2-0 series victory over the West Indies.
Chasing a challenging total of 197, England looked under pressure when key players Jos Buttler and Harry Brook were dismissed with 71 runs needed off just 39 balls. Enter Tom Banton, who smashed a stunning first-ball six to change the momentum. Alongside young Jacob Bethell, Banton dominated the middle overs, putting on a quick-fire 43 runs off only 15 deliveries.
Banton showcased his audacity with elegant strokes, including a reverse-flick for four, finishing unbeaten on 30 off just 11 balls, guiding England to victory with nine balls to spare. This win secured England’s unassailable 2-0 lead in the series and marked Brook’s fifth win as permanent captain.
Earlier, England’s bowler Luke Wood made an instant impact on his comeback by dismissing Evin Lewis with the very first ball. Despite some expensive overs from other bowlers, England’s bowling attack kept the West Indies below par on a small ground.
West Indies captain Shai Hope showed strength with a solid 49, but was eventually outplayed by Adil Rashid’s skillful leg-spin. Rovman Powell and Jason Holder provided late fireworks, but it was not enough to set a winning target.
England’s strategy and resilience paid off in the end, with Banton’s fearless batting sealing the win and the series for England.
