England have gained the upper hand heading into the series decider against the West Indies thanks to the brutal brilliance of Phil Salt.
The West Indies had established a two-match lead in the series, but Salt came good to twice power England to victory.
West Indies have lost two of three T20Is at Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, Trinidad & Tobago, including the fourth T20I of this series. England’s win was their first in their maiden match at the venue.
The West Indies desperately need opening batters who will give them a quick launch, but they haven’t been able to since earlier in the series, with both Brandon King and Kyle Mayers not looking fluent at all.
Nicholas Pooran has been brought up the order to give them the hurry up, but the West Indies really had no chance of chasing down a huge 263 off the back of a tentative start.
The West Indies bowling effort has also slipped away as the series has gone on, with Gudakesh Moti even helpless to avoid a battering in the fourth T20I.
Oshane Thomas’ return to the attack might be just what the doctor ordered but he will have to settle quickly against a batting lineup in deadly form.
Salt has been at the heart of the England revival with a pair of centuries in the England wins which make him going unsold in the IPL auction a real surprise. He has the capacity to keep wicket as well, which is a bonus for England considering the Welshman’s terrific striking with bat in hand.
Behind Salt, England have only really required bit-part efforts, but Jos Buttler and Will Jacks have done well to offer great support.
England played with Chris Woakes as their only right-arm fast bowler in the last match, which highlights the variety of their attack.
Liam Livingstone’s all-around contribution cannot be overstated as he adds depth to both the batting and bowling departments and delivers match-turning efforts.
Verdict: England
England have momentum on their side and should wrap the series up in Trinidad & Tobago.
