West Indies triumph over nine-man Australia 

The West Indies defeated a severely depleted Australian side by 35 runs at Queen’s Park Oval in a high-octane warm-up match ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

 The victory was spearheaded by explosive innings from Nicholas Pooran and Rovman Powell, who powered the West Indies to an imposing total of 257 for 4 in their 20 overs.

Nicholas Pooran was the star of the show, blasting 75 runs off just 25 balls. His aggressive approach was evident from the outset as he smashed the first three legal deliveries he faced for sixes. Pooran’s onslaught continued unabated, particularly targeting Australian spinners Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa, whom he hit for five sixes in just two overs.

Rovman Powell complemented Pooran’s innings with a rapid 52 from 25 balls. Together, they added 12 sixes to the West Indies’ tally, leaving the Australian bowlers with little respite. Sherfane Rutherford also contributed with a fiery 47 not out off 18 balls, ensuring the West Indies finished their innings on a high.

Australia, already at a disadvantage with only nine players available, faced an uphill battle. The team had to resort to using coaches as substitute fielders for the second consecutive match. Marcus Stoinis had arrived in Trinidad but could not participate as his kit was delayed in Miami.

Despite the setbacks, Australia put up a spirited fight. Josh Inglis top-scored with a brisk 55 off 30 balls. However, with only nine batters and an ever-increasing required run rate, Australia struggled to keep pace. Nathan Ellis, who also impressed with the ball, added a valuable 39 off 22 balls in a late partnership with Zampa, but it was not enough to overhaul the massive target.