Australia secured a resounding eight-wicket victory over the West Indies in the first one-day international in Melbourne, thanks to an outstanding 149-run partnership between Skipper Steve Smith and Cameron Green. Smith remained unbeaten on 79 off 79 balls, while Green, batting at number three, scored 77 not out from 104 balls as they comfortably chased down the target of 232 with 11.3 overs to spare. Opener Josh Inglis provided a fiery start with his quickfire 65 off 43 balls, which included 10 boundaries and a six.
This win marked Australia’s 10th consecutive ODI victory, extending their streak from their World Cup triumph in India the previous year. The pressure now mounts on the West Indies to avoid a series whitewash.
Australia’s dominance was evident throughout the match, with Travis Head being the only batting disappointment, managing just four runs off five balls.
Debutant Australian paceman Xavier Bartlett was the standout performer, earning the Man of the Match award for his impressive figures of 4-17 off nine overs. Bartlett’s impactful debut saw him claim a wicket with just his third delivery, setting the tone for Australia’s bowling effort.
Reflecting on his performance, Bartlett expressed his delight, describing the experience of playing alongside stalwart Steve Smith as surreal.
Green reached his half-century off 62 balls, while Smith reached his milestone off 58 deliveries. Inglis, on the other hand, raced to his fifty off just 28 balls, showcasing his aggressive intent with a flurry of boundaries and a massive six.
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However, Inglis’s innings was cut short when he attempted a reverse-sweep off Gudakesh Motie, only to offer a catch to slip. Despite his dismissal, Australia remained in control at 83 for two in the 12th over.
In the West Indies innings, Keacy Carty fell agonizingly short of a century due to a mix-up with his batting partner Hayden Walsh, resulting in a run-out on 88 off 108 balls.
Bartlett and fellow debutant Lance Morris (0-59) made an immediate impact with the ball. Bartlett, in particular, impressed with his swing and claimed crucial wickets, including that of skipper Shai Hope, finishing with figures of 3-8 in five overs.
Leg-spinner Adam Zampa broke a vital partnership by dismissing Roston Chase for 59 off 67 balls, halting the West Indies’ momentum.
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