RSWS 2022 Match 9 Review: Dwayne Smith blows away England Legends with stunning knock as West Indies Legends emerge victorious

West Indies Legends have won their second game in a row in the Road Safety World Series 2022 after their comprehensive victory against England Legends. Dwayne Smith’s blazing innings alongside William Perkins’ support took the opponent away from the game quite early in the run chase.  

Earlier in the game, West Indies Legends opted to bowl first after winning the toss and Darren Powell continued his good rhythm with an early wicket of Phil Mustard (15) while Krishmar Santokie cleaned up through the defences of Mal Loye (9). Skipper Ian Bell and Darren Maddy got a partnership going for a while and in an attempt to increase the scoring rate, Maddy perished after a 23-run knock.  

Rikki Clarke came to the rescue for England Legends as he straightaway scored a lot of boundaries and helped the scoring rate considerably. Bell was dismissed after a 43-ball 46 while Clarke hit five sixes and two fours in his unbeaten 50 off 25 balls as England Legends got to a respectable score of 156 for 5 in their 20 overs. Sulieman Benn was the pick of the bowlers with 2 for 26 while Santokie picked up two wickets.

West Indies Legends openers gave a colorful start to the team

In reply, the West Indies legends got off to a blistering start with both openers Dwayne Smith and William Perkins showing a lot of intent. Smith in particular was the aggressor among the two and reached his half century in no time. England Legends bowlers had no answers to the assault from the two batters, and West Indies Legends went past the 100-run mark quickly.  

Smith carried on with his brilliant display and Clarke finally got the first breakthrough by dismissing Smith for a 42 ball-73 that comprised of nine fours and three sixes. Perkins got to his half century and he retired hurt after a 57-run knock while Clarke picked up Navin Stewart for a duck. However, it was too late for a comeback as West Indies Legends eased to victory with more than two overs to spare and Brian Lara stayed unbeaten on 22.