Buttler’s Masterclass, Dawson’s Spell Seal 21-Run Win for England Over West Indies in T20I Opener

England kicked off their T20I series against West Indies in emphatic fashion with a 21-run victory at the Riverside Ground on Friday, thanks to a batting masterclass from Jos Buttler and a clinical bowling display led by Liam Dawson.

After winning the toss, England captain Harry Brook opted to bat first on a surface offering good bounce. The decision paid dividends as Jos Buttler produced a commanding knock, scoring 96 off 59 deliveries, anchoring England’s innings and falling just short of a century. He was well-supported by Jamie Smith, who chipped in with a fluent 38, while Jacob Bethell added a valuable unbeaten 23 runs towards the end. England posted a competitive total of 188 for 6 in their 20 overs. Romario Shepherd was the pick of the West Indies bowlers, finishing with figures of 2 for 34.

In response, West Indies struggled to build sustained partnerships, with wickets falling at regular intervals. Despite a brisk 39 from Evin Lewis and a composed 24 by Roston Chase, the visitors faltered under pressure, eventually closing at 167 for 9.

Liam Dawson turned the tide in England’s favour with a superb spell of left-arm spin, returning with impressive figures of 4 for 20 from his four overs. His performance broke the back of the West Indies chase and earned him the Player of the Match award.

England now lead the multi-match T20I series 1-0, heading into the second game with strong momentum.