In a display of sheer dominance, Australia obliterated a lackluster West Indies side in just 6.5 overs, sealing an emphatic eight-wicket victory in the final match of their one-day international series in Canberra. Jake Fraser-McGurk stole the spotlight with a blistering 41 off 18 balls, showcasing his exceptional talent in only his second match.
The series had already been decided in Australia’s favor with convincing wins in Melbourne and Sydney, leaving the West Indies to play for pride. Opting to bat first on a humid day, the visitors faltered miserably, crumbling to a paltry 86 all out by the 25th over against an Australian attack missing key players Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc.
Australia wasted no time in pursuit of their target, effortlessly reaching the required runs with a staggering 259 balls to spare, leaving the West Indies stunned by their rapid capitulation.
Fraser-McGurk’s explosive innings, embellished with five fours and three sixes, set the tone for Australia’s swift chase before his dismissal attempting another big shot off Alzarri Joseph. Aaron Hardie’s departure, caught behind for just two off Oshane Thomas, was the only other hiccup in Australia’s march to victory.
Josh Inglis provided valuable support with an unbeaten 35, while skipper Steve Smith remained not out on six.
Earlier, Australian paceman Xavier Bartlett continued his impressive form, claiming 4-21 to complement his debut performance in Melbourne. Lance Morris also made significant contributions with the ball, snatching 2-13 before exiting the field due to a side strain.
Bartlett’s early breakthroughs, including the dismissal of Kjorn Ottley, set the tone for the West Indies’ struggles. Despite brief resistance from Athanaze and Keacy Carty, the visitors failed to gain momentum, managing just 36 runs in the opening 10 overs.
Morris further dented the West Indian innings, removing Carty with a stunning catch by Marnus Labuschagne. Skipper Shai Hope’s dismissal soon after added to the visitors’ woes, leaving them reeling at 43-3.
Debutant Teddy Bishop’s brief stint ended without scoring, falling victim to Morris’ pace, while Athanaze’s gritty 32 off 60 balls offered some resistance before his departure.
However, Bartlett’s relentless pace and accuracy dismantled the West Indian tail, securing two more crucial wickets to wrap up their innings. Romario Shepherd fell for a golden duck, followed by Matthew Forde’s run-out after a mix-up with Roston Chase.
Australia’s comprehensive victory underscored their dominance in the series, leaving the West Indies with much to ponder as they head home.
