In the opening match of the T20I series between West Indies and India, which took place at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Thursday, August 3, an exceptional moment of skill was showcased by all-rounder Kyle Mayers. His remarkable direct hit played a pivotal role in dismissing Indian batsman Sanju Samson.
During the 16th over, with India attempting to build their innings, left-arm spinner Axar Patel tried to sneak in a quick single at cover. However, Mayers swiftly moved to his right, collected the ball cleanly, and in one fluid motion, released a perfect throw that struck the stumps directly.
As a result, Samson was found short of the crease at the striker’s end, and he had to depart from the crease. This dismissal was a turning point in the game as West Indies was defending a total of 150. With the crucial wicket of Samson and the earlier dismissal of Indian captain Hardik Pandya for 19 runs, the hosts managed to put pressure on the Indian team.
Was Sanju Samson’s run-out the decisive moment in the 1st T20I between IND and WI?
As a result, they were able to keep taking wickets and restricted the Men in Blue to 113/6 in 15.3 overs. Mayers’ brilliant fielding effort proved instrumental in West Indies clinching a hard-fought victory by four runs. Their bowlers put up an impressive performance, with Obed McCoy, Jason Holder, and Romario Shephard all contributing with two wickets each.
India’s chase was anchored by debutant Tilak Varma’s impressive knock of 39 off 22 balls, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win for the visitors. In the batting department, West Indies was led by Rovman Powell, who scored 48 off 32 deliveries, including three sixes and as many boundaries.
Nicholas Pooran also made a valuable contribution with his 41 off 34 balls, featuring two boundaries and two maximums. As the teams prepare to face off again at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on Sunday, August 6, the victory has given West Indies a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
Both sides will be eager to make the necessary adjustments and put their best foot forward in the upcoming games to gain momentum in this highly anticipated contest.
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