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This match took place on June 1, 2025, at 03:30 PM IST, during the second ODI between England and West Indies at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff.
In a masterclass of temperament, technique, and timing, Joe Root produced one of the finest innings of his career, steering England to a thrilling three-wicket victory. Chasing a formidable target of 309, Root remained unbeaten on 166—his highest-ever score in ODIs*—turning what once looked like a certain defeat into a remarkable win. England sealed the series 2–0 with one match still to play, completing the chase with seven balls to spare.
England's chase of 309 began on a disastrous note, losing both openers — Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett — for ducks within the first nine balls. At 2 for 2 and later 93 for 4, the hosts looked like they had dug themselves into a deep trench. Jos Buttler fell for a duck and Captain Harry Brook perished for a fluent 47. Yet, amidst the chaos, Root stood firm, orchestrating a rescue act that combined composure with controlled aggression.
Partnered first with Jacob Bethell and then Will Jacks (49), Root played the anchor and finisher, absorbing pressure and slowly shifting momentum. His 143-run partnership with Jacks set the tone for the dramatic turnaround.
Root's innings was a blend of graceful stroke-play and cold precision. He reached his hundred with a six and a four off Gudakesh Motie and then accelerated fiercely. With 23 boundaries and a six in his 139-ball knock, Root not only secured victory but also became England's highest-ever run-scorer in ODIs, surpassing Eoin Morgan's 6957 runs and crossing the 7,000-run milestone.
His final flourish — a classic straight drive for four — encapsulated his dominance and calm under pressure.
Earlier, West Indies posted a competitive 308, thanks largely to Keacy Carty's resilient 103 and Shai Hope's 78. Alzarri Joseph showed potential with the bowling by claiming 4 for 31, including significant wickets at pivotal moments. However, England's fielding was far from ideal; missed run-outs and dropped catches nearly cost them the match.
Despite early control, the Windies failed to capitalise. From 258 for 4, they lost their final six wickets for just 50 runs. Mahmood (3 for 37) and Rashid (4 for 63) pegged them back at the death.
Post-match, Root praised his teammates and Brook's captaincy, saying, "Hopefully this can be a team that is consistent and sticks together for a long period of time." With a series win secured and their batting stalwart in peak form, England will take confidence into the final match — and perhaps, a new era in ODI cricket.
