Australia Stuns West Indies in Thrilling 1st T20I at Sabina Park

The Australia cricket team has taken an early lead in the 5-match T20I series against the West Indies with a three-wicket victory in the opening game held at Sabina Park, Kingston on July 21, 2025.

Sent into bat, the West Indies posted a competitive total of 189 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings saw a fiery 91-run partnership between captain Shai Hope, who scored 55, and Roston Chase, who made a scintillating 60 off just 25 balls, marking his fastest half-century in T20 internationals. The Caribbean side started strong, racing to 32 without loss in three overs, but faced a dramatic middle-over collapse sparked by Australia's Ben Dwarshuis. The left-arm pacer claimed a career-best 4 wickets for 36 runs, including a near hat-trick, breaking the momentum just as the West Indies looked set to surpass 200 runs.

In reply, Australia faced initial challenges but were anchored by Cameron Green, whose spectacular 51 off 26 balls set the platform. Mitchell Owen, making a memorable impact on debut, contributed a crucial 50-run innings that steered Australia to a successful chase. The partnership between Green and Owen guided the visitors to 190 for 7 in 18.5 overs, clinching the game with 3 wickets in hand and 7 balls to spare.

The Australian bowling unit, aided by spinner Adam Zampa’s tight economy and sharp fielding efforts, efficiently contained the West Indies after their strong start. The victory gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the series, complementing their recent dominant 3-0 Test series sweep in the Caribbean. Fans can anticipate another exciting encounter as the teams prepare to meet again in Kingston on Tuesday.