Cricket News

‘That was a complete thrashing’ – Fans react as Australia beat West Indies by 8 wickets in 1st ODI

the Australian team, led by Steve Smith, displayed a commendable performance against the Windies.

Published on

February 2, 2024

Australia secured an early lead in the three-match ODI series against the West Indies by winning the first encounter. Despite missing key players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Marsh, and Glenn Maxwell from their World Cup-winning squad, the Australian team, led by Steve Smith, displayed a commendable performance against the Windies.

Opting to bowl first, debutant Xavier Bartlett made a stunning impact, dismissing Justin Greaves in the second over with a brilliant delivery. Bartlett continued his impressive spell, also claiming the wickets of Alick Athanaze and the Windies skipper Shai Hope in his initial overs. Kavem Hodge’s early departure left the West Indies struggling at 59/4 in the 16th over.

Despite the challenging situation, Keacy Carty and Roston Chase showcased resilience, forming a crucial 108-run partnership for the fifth wicket. However, both batsmen fell after scoring half-centuries, and the West Indies were eventually bowled out for 231 in the 49th over, with Bartlett finishing with impressive figures of 4/17.

Australia chased the target comfortably

Chasing the target, the West Indies started well, with Matthew Forde dismissing World Cup hero Travis Head early on. However, Josh Inglis played a dynamic inning, scoring a rapid 65 off 43 balls before falling to Gudakesh Motie. Inglis’s aggressive approach eased the pressure on Cameron Green and Steve Smith, both of whom remained unbeaten in their 70s. The duo guided Australia to victory in the 39th over, securing a 1-0 lead in the series.

The absence of key players did not hinder Australia’s performance, showcasing the depth and talent in their squad. The Windies, despite a fighting partnership between Carty and Chase, couldn’t defend their total, and Australia’s solid batting display sealed their victory in the series opener. The teams will now look forward to the remaining matches as the battle for supremacy continues.

Here is how fans react to Australia’s dominant win: