SYDNEY: Australia secured an 83-run victory against the West Indies in the second one-day international at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Man of the match Sean Abbott’s exceptional performance with both bat and ball played a key role in the win, leading Australia to seal the three-match series with a match to spare.
Chasing a target of 258-9, the West Indies struggled against Australia’s attack, ultimately getting dismissed for 175 in the 44th over. Abbott’s impressive bowling figures of 3-40, coupled with Josh Hazlewood’s 3-43, proved too much for the visitors.
Australia’s skipper, Steve Smith, commented on the challenging start to the game, acknowledging the West Indies’ strong bowling early on. However, he praised the late middle order for their remarkable job, helping Australia defend what he considered a par score of 250. This win marked Australia’s 11th consecutive ODI victory.
The West Indies captain, Shai Hope, highlighted the need for his team to find a way to bat more freely against the Australian bowlers, despite their disciplined performance in the bowling department.
West Indies Batting Against Australia
The West Indies’ run chase started well, but Abbott’s early breakthroughs, including the key wicket of Hope (29) and Carty (40), left the visitors struggling at 108-5. Hazlewood’s crucial contributions and a spectacular one-handed diving catch by Cameron Green to dismiss Roston Chase further solidified Australia’s dominance.
Earlier in the match, Abbott’s entertaining 69 off 63 balls played a crucial role in helping Australia recover from a shaky position of 167-7. The explosive debutant, Jake Fraser-McGurk, failed to make an impact, getting out for just 10 to Alzarri Joseph. Despite losing key wickets, Abbott formed crucial partnerships with Will Sutherland (57 runs) and a late flurry that took him to his second one-day half-century.
Australia now looks forward to the final match of the series in Canberra on Tuesday, aiming to maintain their winning streak.
