Australia have extended their T20 series lead over the West Indies to 4-0, with captain Mitchell Marsh hailing an "outstanding effort with the ball." The Baggy Greens secured a thrilling three-wicket victory in Basseterre, showcasing their batting depth and resilience.
The West Indies posted a competitive total of 206, remarkably achieving this without any individual batsman scoring more than 34. Sherfane Rutherford's 31 was the highest score in their innings, highlighting a team effort. Australia's chase was ignited by Glenn Maxwell's explosive 47 off just 18 balls, setting a blistering pace. Josh Inglis continued the momentum with a well-constructed 51 from 30 deliveries.
Despite Jediah Blades's three-wicket haul threatening to derail the Australian chase, Cameron Green's composed and unbeaten 55 off 35 balls proved to be the match-winning innings. He guided Australia over the line with four balls to spare.
"I think it was an all-round really good effort," Marsh said after the match. "To take a few early wickets, teams like the West Indies - with how deep they bat - we knew that they were going to come hard the whole innings, which they did. But, I thought the way we were able to navigate some tricky overs and keep taking wickets, I feel 230 is probably par on that. I thought it was an outstanding effort with the ball."
Glenn Maxwell emphasized the importance of fielding, stating, "I put a lot of emphasis on my fielding. I think it's one of the things that I've always held a high regard for in the way I prepare for any series, any team that I'm playing for. To make sure that I'm adding something different to the team, regardless of whether I'm batting or bowling, is, I think, one of the most important things."
The West Indies now face the prospect of a second consecutive T20I series whitewash. The final match of the series takes place at Werner Park on Tuesday.