Jos Buttler’s explosive 96 and Liam Dawson’s four-wicket haul propelled England to a commanding 21-run victory over the West Indies in the 1st T20I at Chester-le-Street.
England Dominates West Indies in 1st T20I
In a thrilling encounter at Chester-le-Street on June 6, 2025, England secured a commanding 21-run victory over the West Indies in the opening match of their T20I series. Jos Buttler’s explosive 96 off 59 balls anchored England’s innings, while Liam Dawson’s exceptional bowling performance, claiming 4 wickets for 20 runs, dismantled the West Indies’ chase .
Buttler's Explosive Innings Sets the Tone
Jos Buttler’s scintillating 96 was a masterclass in T20 batting. His innings featured a pivotal 79-run partnership with Jamie Smith, who contributed a brisk 38 off 20 balls. Despite a mid-innings slowdown, England posted a challenging total of 188/6, with Buttler’s knock being the highlight.
Dawson's Spin Magic Dismantles West Indies
Liam Dawson’s return to international cricket after almost three years was marked by a match-winning performance. His four-wicket haul was instrumental in restricting the West Indies to 167/9. England’s spin-heavy attack, including Adil Rashid and Jacob Bethell, effectively strangled the West Indies’ chase, showcasing tactical innovation in the middle overs.
Player of the Match: Liam Dawson
Liam Dawson was named Player of the Match for his exceptional bowling performance, which played a crucial role in England’s victory. His experience and control in spin bowling were pivotal in dismantling the West Indies’ middle order.
England Takes 1-0 Lead in Series
With this victory, England now leads the three-match T20I series 1-0. The team’s blend of experienced leadership and tactical innovation bodes well for the upcoming matches. The second T20I is scheduled for Sunday in Bristol, where England will look to extend their lead and secure the series win.
Key Match Stats
- England's Total: 188/6
- Top Scorer: Jos Buttler – 96 (59 balls)
- Best Bowling: Liam Dawson – 4/20
- West Indies' Total: 167/9
- Top Scorer for West Indies: Evin Lewis – 39
England’s clinical performance in the 1st T20I against the West Indies sets a high standard for the remainder of the series. With key players like Buttler and Dawson in form, England looks poised to capitalize on their momentum and aim for a series win. Cricket fans worldwide will be eagerly awaiting the next match in Bristol to see if England can continue their dominant run.