The Caribbean mystery comes to life again. Ten years after their stunning Wankhede triumph, West Indies did it again, crushing England to a 30-run win at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai in a performance that will evoke memories of 2016 and spark talk of another unlikely title charge at the 2026 T20 World Cup.
A decade ago, Wankhede witnessed the Universe Boss aka Chris Gayle light up Mumbai with a magnificent century to guide the West Indies over the line. It was somewhat similar this time with another left-hander, Sherfane Rutherford, leading the charge with a sensational 76 off 42 balls along with cameos from Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase and Jason Holder to ensure they had a fighting total of 196/6.
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One stark contrast between the two games is how the pace led in 2016 with Dwayne Bravo and Andre Russell leading the way with the ball. But in 2026, it was the spin duo of Gudakesh Motie and Roston Chase who did a tough job here to put pressure on England.
SPINNERS WEAVE THE WEB
The West Indies spin attack was clinical, accounting for six wickets between them. Motie was the star with figures of 3/33, becoming only the second bowler to dismiss the opposition number three, four and five twice in T20 World Cups. Chase chipped in with 2/29 while Akeal Hosein claimed 1/32 as the trio combined to form a grip that England just couldn’t break free from.
Their approach was markedly different from England’s spinners – the bowling was quicker and shorter, with 70% of deliveries hitting 90+ km/h compared to England’s more measured pace.
ENGLISH CHASE KNOCKS
Phil Salt got off to a fireworks start, taking 30 off just 14 balls, including a mammoth 24 off Jason Holder. But Romario Shepherd’s introduction in the power bowl changed the game and removed the dangerous opener. From there, England lost wickets at regular intervals.
Sam Curran fought bravely with 43 off 30 balls but found no support at the other end. The West Indies fielding was exemplary throughout – sharp catches, athletic work on the ground and accurate throws under pressure.
A SUCCESSFUL GATE AT WANKHEDE
What makes this victory even more special is the venue. The Wankhede, with dew during night games, is notoriously difficult to defend. Still, West Indies executed their plans to perfection, with Shamar Joseph and Holder nailing their yorkers to death.
Adil Rashid was England’s lone bright spark, returning paltry figures of 2/16 and reaching 400 T20 wickets in the process. But it wasn’t enough to stop the Caribbean juggernaut.
THE SAMMY EFFECT
There seems to be something special about this side of the West Indies. Maybe it’s the presence Darren Sammy as head coach—the same man who led them to glory in 2016. Whatever the secret ingredient, this side is coming together at the right time. With two wins on the bounce, they have one foot in the Super 8s.
England, meanwhile, face a must-win situation. With games against Scotland and Italy remaining, they will need to quickly rediscover their best form to keep their tournament hopes alive.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
February 11, 2026