In the T20 World Cup 2024 showdown, West Indies elected to bowl first after winning the toss against Papua New Guinea at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on Sunday, June 2nd. Sese Bau played a crucial role for Papua New Guinea, showing his mettle with a steady 50 runs, even as wickets tumbled around him. Despite the challenge, PNG managed to post a respectable 136/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
The West Indies bowlers wasted no time in making an impact, striking early to dismiss two PNG batters for just 10 runs. Akeal Hosein made a breakthrough by cleaning up Lega Siaka, while Romario Shepherd accounted for Tony Ura. Assad Vala attempted to counterattack but fell victim to Alzarri Joseph, further denting PNG’s hopes with three wickets down during the powerplay. Joseph and Andre Russell shared the spoils with two wickets each.
In response, West Indies faced an early setback with the dismissal of Johnson Charles, leaving them in a precarious position. Nicholas Pooran survived an LBW scare, thanks to a missed review by Papua New Guinea. Meanwhile, Brandon King seemed to thrive, effortlessly finding the boundaries while Pooran struggled. The duo’s partnership flourished during the powerplay, adding 53 runs and firmly placing the hosts in control. However, the game’s dynamics swiftly changed with the quick dismissals of both batsmen.
Subsequently, the middle order struggled to keep the scoreboard ticking, losing wickets at regular intervals. Roston Chase held one end, battling on as partners fell around him. Chase unleashed a quick 42 off just 27 balls, supported by Russell, ultimately guiding WI to a 5-run win with 6 balls left.
The hosts kick it off with a win but kudos to Papua New Guinea for putting up a fight and taking the game so close!!#T20WorldCup #WIvPNG
— Robin Aiyuda Uthappa (@robbieuthappa) June 2, 2024
👏 The West Indies take the win, but hats off to Papua New Guinea for putting up a great fight! #T20WorldCup #T20WC #WIvPNG #WIvsPNG #BharatArmy
— The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) June 2, 2024
Winning start for West Indies but some confidence builder game for Papua New Guinea. They kept themselves in the game by fighting hard till the last.
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) June 2, 2024
Last Updated on June 2, 2024
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