(SportsMax) The West Indies Masters delivered a commanding performance to secure a seven-wicket victory over Australia Masters in the International Masters T20 League in India on Monday. Despite a stunning century from Shane Watson, West Indies Masters chased down a challenging target of 217 with ease, thanks to a breathtaking knock from Lendl Simmons.
Batting first, Australia Masters posted an imposing 216-8 in 20 overs, with Shane Watson producing a vintage display of power-hitting. Watson’s 107 off 52 balls, featuring nine fours and nine sixes, was the highlight of the innings. Daniel Christian also played a quick-fire cameo, smashing 32 off 15 balls, while Ben Cutting contributed 18 off 11. Ashley Nurse was the pick of the West Indies Masters’ bowlers, claiming 3-16 in three overs, while Ravi Rampaul (2-23) and Jerome Taylor (2-40) provided crucial breakthroughs.
In response, the West Indies Masters made light work of the chase, reaching 220/3 in just 19.2 overs. Dwayne Smith set the tone early, hammering 51 off 29 balls before Simmons took centre stage. The aggressive right-hander blazed his way to an unbeaten 94 off 44 balls, clobbering six fours and eight sixes at an explosive strike rate of 213.64. He found solid support from Brian Lara, who scored 33 off 21 balls, and Chadwick Walton, who finished the job with a rapid 23 off 11 balls.
Ben Hilfenhaus, Daniel Christian, and Bryce McGain each claimed a wicket for Australia Masters, but their efforts were not enough to contain the dominant West Indies batting lineup.
With this emphatic victory, the West Indies Masters showcased their strength and depth in the International Masters T20 League, sending a strong message to their rivals as the tournament progresses.
