Smith-Green’s partnership along with Bartlett’s 4-fers make Australia register a comfortable 8 wickets victory in first ODI against West Indies.
In the opening ODI of the three-match series on February 2nd, Australia secured a commanding victory over West Indies at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Opting to bat first, West Indies struggled, posting 231 runs before being all out in 48.4 overs. Keacy Carty shone for the team with a notable 88 runs off 108 balls. In response, Australia efficiently chased down the target in 38.3 overs, led by impressive performances from Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, and Steve Smith.
Despite a shaky start with the early dismissal of Travis Head, Australia’s innings gained momentum through Inglis and Green’s partnership. Though Gudakesh Motie managed to break through, dismissing Inglis, Green and Smith steered Australia to victory with an unbeaten partnership.
Earlier in the match, West Indies struggled to establish a strong foundation, losing key wickets early on, including that of skipper Shai Hope, courtesy of Xavier Bartlett’s stellar bowling performance.