NEW DELHI: Veteran all-rounder Andre Russell made a spectacular return to international cricket, playing a pivotal role in guiding West Indies to a thrilling four-wicket victory over England in the opening Twenty20 International at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Tuesday.
'A masterstroke'
Despite a two-year absence, Russell's shock recall proved to be a masterstroke as he excelled with both bat and ball.
The 35-year-old all-rounder claimed three wickets for just 19 runs off four overs, playing a crucial part in restricting the world champions to a total of 171.
England, after a strong start with a 77-run opening partnership, were eventually all out.
Mid-innings wobble for Windies
Chasing a target of 172, West Indies faced a mid-innings wobble that momentarily brought England back into the contest.
However, Russell, alongside skipper Rovman Powell (31 not out), steadied the ship with a quick-fire 29 not out off just 14 balls. Russell's innings featured two fours and two sixes, including a monstrous six out of the ground over midwicket off Adil Rashid.
'Life is so funny'
Reflecting on his outstanding performance, Russell remarked, "Life is so funny. Since when I got selected for the West Indies team, I've been dreaming for two weeks now — and I was dreaming of being the man of the match."
The West Indies innings was marked by explosive hitting, with 14 sixes, including two massive shots from opener Kyle Mayers that soared out of the ground.
Russell sealed the victory in style by slashing a sublime shot over backward point off Sam Curran for four runs.
Buttler rued missed opportunity
England's skipper Jos Buttler expressed disappointment over the missed opportunity to capitalise on a strong start, stating, "From the position we were in, we were looking for a score of 200."
The second T20I of the series is scheduled to take place in Grenada on Thursday, promising another exciting clash between the two cricketing giants.
Brief scores:
England: 171 all out in 19.3 overs (P. Salt 40, J. Buttler 39, L. Livingstone 27; A. Russell 3-19, A. Joseph 3-54)
West Indies: 172-6 in 18.1 overs (K. Mayers 35, S. Hope 36, R. Powell 31 not out, A. Russell 29 not out; R. Ahmed 3-39, A. Rashid 2-25)
(With inputs from AFP)
