Jacob Bethell of England bats watched by West Indies wicketkeeper Shai Hopeduring the 1st Vitality IT20 match between England and the West Indies at Banks Homes Riverside on June 06, 2025 in Chester-le-Street, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Shai Hope’s debut as West Indies T20 captain ended on a losing note as the two time world champions suffered a 21-runs defeat to England in Durham in the opening game of their three match series.
England won the toss and decided to bat first.
The hosts posted 188 for 6 in their allotted overs. Jos Buttler led the way with a cracking 96 off 81 balls with six fours and four sixes.
He was supported by Jamie Smith, 38, and Jacob Bethell, 23, against Romario Shepherd who bagged 2 for 33.
The Windies couldn’t cope with the England bowling attack and were restricted to 167 for 9. Evin Lewis top-scored with 39 and Roston Chase, 24, as Liam Dawson in his first game in England in four years ended with 4 for 20 and two each for Matthew Potts and Bethell.
Hope says the West Indies batting is a powerful one, but they must quickly get up to speed with the England spinners.
Shai Hope.
The second game in the series will be played on Sunday.
English (US) ·