One of those times when you just nail it: Jofra Archer on win against West Indies

In a thrilling T20 match at St Lucia, Jofra Archer’s remarkable bowling performance led England to a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over the hosts, West Indies.

West Indies were in a strong position at 137 for 2 with five overs remaining, thanks to a powerful display by their captain Rovman Powell. Powell had just smashed 20 runs off Liam Livingstone’s over, showing clear intent to finish the innings on a high. However, Powell’s dismissal on the last ball of the over slightly shifted the momentum back to England.

Jofra Archer then delivered a crucial over, which he later described as “one of those times when you just nail it.” His over featured precise wide yorkers, outswinging deliveries, and raw pace that reached up to 150kph (93mph). Nicholas Pooran, who had been in superb form, slashing one delivery past Mark Wood to become the first batter in the tournament to reach 200 runs. However, Archer’s last ball of the over got the thinnest of edges from Pooran, caught by Jos Buttler. This over triggered a collapse, as West Indies lost 3 wickets for just 6 runs in 12 deliveries.

West Indies Struggle

Despite a bright finish from Sherfane Rutherford, West Indies couldn’t regain control of the match. They finished their innings at a less threatening total, allowing England to chase down the target comfortably.

England’s Dominant Chase

Phil Salt and Jonny Bairstow then powered England to victory with an unbroken stand of 97 runs in 44 balls, wrapping up the win with 15 balls to spare. However, the credit for the win largely belonged to Archer.

“I was just glad I executed,” Archer said post-match. “It was everything we talked about in the bowling meetings. That over was probably the turning point.”

Archer’s performance was a significant boost for England, showcasing his tactical acumen and raw pace, which have remained intact despite his long absence due to injuries.

Archer highlighted the importance of mixing pace in T20 cricket, acknowledging that the lively St Lucia pitch allowed him to bowl faster. “Usually everyone sits back and tries to use the pace, so I feel from the Pakistan series onwards, I’ve been trying to mix the pace,” he said. “In the powerplay, you mix it up so you don’t get lined up.”

Archer finished with figures of 1 for 34 in his four overs, marking a successful and impactful comeback.