Joe Root’s Record-Breaking 166 Powers England to Series Win in Cardiff Thriller
England secured a nail-biting three-wicket win in the second ODI at Cardiff, chasing down 309 with just seven balls to spare, courtesy of a magnificent unbeaten 166 from Joe Root—his highest ODI score and 18th century in the format. The victory sealed the series for England, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead with one match remaining.
Root’s innings was a masterclass in timing, placement, and composure, rescuing England from a precarious 2 for 2 and later 93 for 4. It also made him England’s leading ODI run-scorer, surpassing Eoin Morgan’s tally of 6,957 runs.
West Indies Show Grit, But England’s Chase Proves Too Strong
Inserted to bat first, West Indies posted 308 in 49.4 overs, thanks largely to Keacy Carty’s maiden ODI century (103). Shai Hope added a crucial 78, while Brandon King’s 59 provided early impetus. Despite a string of dropped catches and missed run-out chances by England, Adil Rashid’s 4 for 63 and Saqib Mahmood’s 3 for 37 ensured West Indies didn’t run away with the contest.
England’s chase began in disaster, with openers Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett dismissed for ducks inside nine deliveries. At 2 for 2 and then 93 for 4—after Jos Buttler fell for 11—it seemed West Indies might level the series. However, Root found an able partner in Will Jacks, whose aggressive 49 off 58 balls added 143 runs in just 122 deliveries. Jacks’ dismissal by Alzarri Joseph (4 for 31) came late in the piece, but Root remained imperious.
A Knock for the Ages
Root’s knock was a perfect blend of calm accumulation and controlled aggression. He reached his century in style with a six over midwicket, before launching into an array of ramps, scoops, and classic drives to power England home. His last 70 runs came at a blistering pace, ensuring the required rate never spiraled out of control.
Earlier, Root survived a pair of near run-outs and an LBW review that narrowly went in his favour. But once settled, he played with typical elegance, punctuating his innings with 23 boundaries.
A Glimpse of the Future for Windies
West Indies’ spirited performance was highlighted by Carty’s calmness at the crease and Joseph’s fiery four-wicket haul. Their batting effort was underpinned by solid partnerships, including a 141-run stand between Carty and King. However, fielding lapses and an inability to contain Root’s masterclass ultimately cost them the game.
What’s Next?
With the series already secured, England will head into the final ODI at The Oval with momentum on their side, while West Indies will look to salvage pride and avoid a clean sweep.
Stay tuned to CricGend.com for in-depth analysis, player interviews, and more insights from this thrilling ODI series!
