Aus vs WI: Rutherford, Russell Shine as Visitors Clinch 3rd T20I Victory

In the concluding match of the three-game T20I series against Australia, West Indies secured a 37-run victory on Tuesday, February 13, marking a consolation win after Australia had already clinched the series. Challenged with batting first in Perth, West Indies found themselves in a precarious position at 79 for 5. It was Sherfane Rutherford’s remarkable 67 off 40 balls, featuring 5 fours and 5 sixes, alongside Andre Russell’s explosive 71 from 29 balls, with 7 sixes, that propelled the Caribbean team to a formidable score of 220 for 6. Australia’s response was limited to 183 for 5, despite David Warner’s striking 81 off 43 balls, allowing West Indies to narrow the series margin to 2-1 in Australia’s favor.

The initial phase of the match saw the West Indies struggling for momentum, frequently losing wickets. However, a splendid partnership between Rutherford and Russell, amassing 139 runs for the sixth wicket, turned the tide. The pair unleashed an onslaught against Australian bowlers including Spencer Johnson, Aaron Hardie, Adam Zampa, and Jason Behrendroff, leading to a significant total. Rutherford, who started cautiously, achieved his first T20I fifty, while Russell showcased his prowess in the final overs with his powerful hitting.

Australia’s chase appeared hopeful with Warner at the crease, reaching 98 for 1 midway through their innings. Yet, the escalating required rate and Warner’s departure at 81 dampened their prospects. Tight bowling spells and strategic wicket-taking by the West Indies, particularly from Roston Chase (2 for 19) and Romario Shepherd (2 for 31), curbed Australia’s chase to 183 for 5. Despite Tim David’s late effort with a rapid 41* off 12 balls, Australia fell short by 37 runs.

This victory concluded West Indies’ tour of Australia, where they managed two wins in eight matches. Despite drawing the two-match Test series 1-1, West Indies struggled in the white-ball formats, succumbing to a clean sweep in the ODIs and losing the T20I series 2-1.