Rutherford’s 76 and spin trio dismantle 2022 champions at Wankhede*
Mumbai, February 11, 2026 — West Indies delivered a commanding performance to defeat England by 30 runs at the Wankhede Stadium, climbing to the top of Group C in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Sherfane Rutherford powered the innings with a blistering unbeaten 76 off 42 balls, smashing seven sixes to anchor West Indies to a formidable 196-6. The two-time champions then tightened the screws with disciplined spin bowling to dismiss England for 166 in 19 overs.
After being put in to bat, West Indies stumbled early, losing both openers within the first seven deliveries. Shimron Hetmyer (23) and Roston Chase (34) rebuilt the innings before Rutherford ignited the charge. He shared a crucial 61-run partnership with Jason Holder, who struck 33 off 17 balls, including four sixes, pushing the total close to 200.
England’s Adil Rashid was the standout bowler, conceding just 16 runs in his four overs while claiming two wickets.
In reply, England began aggressively but lost Phil Salt (30) in the fourth over. Roston Chase removed Jos Buttler for 21, and Gudakesh Motie’s double strike shifted momentum decisively. England were reduced to 93-4 at the halfway mark, struggling against the Caribbean spin attack.
Motie finished with impressive figures of 3-33, including the key wicket of England captain Harry Brook, who attempted to anchor the chase. Chase also trapped Will Jacks lbw as West Indies tightened control.
Sam Curran fought back with an unbeaten 43, but lacked support as wickets continued to tumble. Shamar Joseph sealed the victory by claiming the final wicket.
England captain Harry Brook admitted his side misjudged conditions.
“We thought it was a chaseable total, but it didn’t dew up as much as we expected and didn’t skid onto the bat. West Indies played outstanding,” Brook said.
Rutherford, named Player of the Match, credited clarity and preparation.
“I trust my process. We were maybe 10 runs short of what we wanted, but the bowlers executed perfectly.”
The victory marks West Indies’ second consecutive win, while England drop to third in the group behind Scotland after their first defeat of the tournament.
