West Indies beat England by four wickets on the final day of the first international test since the coronavirus break on Sunday, taking a 1-0 lead at the Ageas Bowl in a three-test series thanks to a 95-run knock by Jermaine Blackwood.
England made early inroads into the West Indies batting lineup on day five as the visitors targeted 200 to win, reducing them to 27-3 before Blackwood began to set the foundations for a big win for the Caribbean side, albeit behind closed doors.
When opener John Campbell retired hurt following a toe-crushing yorker from Jofra Archer, Blackwood came in before lunch and began to anchor the innings, sharing a 73-run stand with Roston Chase (37).
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Coach Phil Simmons has the right mix of experience and expertise to mold this edition of West Indian cricketers into a serious and top contender. After an opening win, I would leave the same eleven intact for the next test.
English conditions being as challenging as they are, I anticipate there will be an opportunity to insert spinner Cornwall later in the series. The big fella can bowl economically while carrying a decent bat; however, if the Windies continue their winning ways then I say if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!!!
We all know we have talented players in the Caribbean. What we lacked was the brains to support the talent. If we played as we did in that test match, we would be much more successful.
This was such an exhilarating win. Our guys were disciplined, well focused and determined to come out victorious. This has to be a very proud moment for the whole Caribbean.
Want to wish them the very best in the other two test matches. HURRAY!!!!!