Australia registered a comprehensive 8 wickets win over West Indies in the first One-day international match played at Melbourne Cricket Ground, MCG on 2nd February 2024. Australian stand-in captain Steve Smith and decided to field first. It was a perfect start for the debutant as Xavier Barlett dismissed Justin Greaves with a peach to get his maiden wicket.
His brilliant bowling continued with a stunning delivery to dismiss Alick Athanze. Barlett then produced a lovely delivery to get rid of West Indies captain Shai Hope to leave the visitors in trouble. Keacy Carty and Roston Chase steadied the ship for West Indies putting on an excellent 110-run partnership for the 5th wicket. Barlett then dismissed Gudakesh Motie to finish with figures of 4 for 17 in 9 overs. Australia bowled out West Indies for 231 in 49.4 overs.
Chasing down 232 runs to win, Travis Head was dismissed cheaply in the very first over itself. Josh Inglis and Cameron Green showed intent in putting pressure on the West Indies bowling. Both batters kept the scoreboard ticking making life tough for opponents. Australia made 79 for 1 at the end of 10 overs.
Inglis was dismissed for a quickfire 65 off 43 deliveries. Inglis and Green added 79 runs for the 2nd wicket. Captain Steve Smith and Green kept the scoreboard ticking not allowing West Indies bowlers to settle. Both batters ensured that Australia registered a comfortable 8-wicket win with 69 balls to spare. Smith and Green added unbeaten 149 runs for the 3rd wicket. Australia takes a 1-0 lead in the 3-match ODI series.
Xavier Barlett was named the player of the match award for his 4 for 17 in 9 overs. It was a disciplined bowling effort as he made use of conditions that helped the pace bowlers initially.
Xavier Barlett Impressed in BBL 13
Xavier Barlett was included in the Australian ODI squad against West Indies on the back of great performances during the Big Bash League 13. He played a key role in helping the Heat win the 2023-24 BBL title.
He finished as the leading wicket in the tournament with 20 wickets from 11 matches( 11 innings) at an economy of 7.63 runs per over and figures of 3 for 29.
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