Joe Root delivered a record-breaking performance on Sunday, scoring a brilliant 166 to guide England to a three-wicket win over West Indies at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. The win gave England an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.
Root’s innings not only marked his 18th ODI century but also made him England’s all-time leading run-scorer in the format, surpassing Eoin Morgan and becoming the first English player to cross 7,000 ODI runs.
Chasing a challenging 309-run target, England recovered from an early collapse—2 for 2—to reach the total with seven balls to spare. Root anchored the chase with a crucial 143-run stand alongside Will Jacks (49), steadying the innings after a rocky start.
“I just want to keep getting better every day,” Root said. “If I keep contributing, I’ll keep putting myself forward.”
West Indies, who had elected to bat first, posted 308 all out in 47.4 overs, powered by Keacy Carty’s composed 103 and Shai Hope’s 78. Despite promising partnerships, the visitors struggled to capitalize in the death overs, with England’s Adil Rashid leading the bowling effort with 4 for 63. Rashid also became England’s highest wicket-taking spinner across all formats.
England’s chase began disastrously as openers Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett were dismissed for ducks. Harry Brook, despite being dropped on 30, made 47 before falling to Alzarri Joseph (4 for 31). Jos Buttler’s early departure added to the pressure, but Root’s calm presence proved decisive.
Root found support late in the innings from Rashid, who remained unbeaten as England sealed the win.
West Indies captain Shai Hope acknowledged his side’s batting collapse. “We were in a strong position but fell away,” he admitted. “Credit to the bowlers—they fought till the end.”
The final ODI will take place at The Oval in London on Tuesday.
