A mesmerising century by Tim David outshone an equally commanding ton from West Indies skipper Shai Hope, as Australia pulled off a stunning six-wicket win to seal the five-match T20I series 3-0 at Warner Park on Friday night.
Hope’s unbeaten 102 off 57 balls had given the hosts a fighting total of 214/4, but David responded with a blistering 102* from just 37 balls — an innings studded with 11 sixes and six fours — to flatten the Windies and carry Australia home with 23 balls to spare.
Hope and King Lay the Foundation
Asked to bat first, West Indies looked in control thanks to a dominant 125-run opening stand between Hope and Brandon King. King’s explosive 62 off 36 balls (4x3, 6x6) gave the innings early momentum. But once Mitchell Owen had King caught, the middle order failed to capitalise. Shimron Hetmyer (9), Sherfane Rutherford (12), and Rovman Powell (9) couldn’t accelerate as the Aussies applied the brakes late on.
We didn't put enough on the board: On a pitch like that with the dimensions of the ground, we knew it would be hard to defend. I think we fell a few runs short. Credit to the Australian bowlers — they bowled very well at the death.
David Turns the Game on its Head
In reply, Australia stumbled early. Skipper Mitchell Marsh (22), Glenn Maxwell (20), Josh Inglis (15), and Cameron Green (11) were all back in the pavilion with the score at 87/4. But then, Tim David walked in and completely shifted the momentum.
I was just having a great time in the middle playing for Australia. It was nice to have a period at home and get my body right. I didn’t think I’d get the opportunity to score a hundred for Australia, so I’m stoked.
David found a reliable partner in Mitchell Owen (36*), and the pair stitched an unbeaten 128-run stand for the fifth wicket. Their calculated assault ensured Australia crossed the finish line in just 16.1 overs.
‘No Words’ – Marsh in Awe of David’s Knock
Australia captain Mitchell Marsh was all praise for the effort. “There are no words for that innings from Tim David. We’ve played well so far in the series and executed with the ball. As a group, we’ve played really good cricket,” he said.
David also revealed a quirky detail about his weapon of choice. “I've been carrying that Dre Russ bat around for a year, and it felt like it was the best time to use it. The pitch was good, short boundaries — you’ve got to back your strengths,” he said with a grin.
Brief Scores: West Indies 214/4 in 20 overs (Shai Hope 102*, Brandon King 62; Mitchell Owen 1-23, Nathan Ellis 1-37) Australia 215/4 in 16.1 overs (Tim David 102*, Mitchell Owen 36*; Romario Shepherd 2-39) Australia won by six wickets. Australia lead the five-match series 3–0.
