Aussies secure series as Abbott does it all
AN all-round masterclass from Sean Abbott has helped Australia defeat the West Indies by 83 runs at the SCG yesterday. The result sees Australia take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, set to be completed at Manuka Oval tomorrow.
Playing in front of adoring home fans, Abbott steered his side to a defendable total with the bat before chiming in with timely breakthroughs in defence of 9-258. The New South Welshman struck 69 (63) and claimed 3-40 (10) to go with a couple of clutch catches in the Player of the Match performance.
Australia was sent in to bat on an inconsistent SCG wicket, with debutant Jake Fraser-McGurk making a whirlwind start. The Victorian notched 10 runs – including a massive six over mid-wicket – off the opening over before nicking off on the arm of Alzarri Joseph.
Boundaries continued to flow for the Australians but so did the dismissals, eventually exposing a relatively inexperienced lower order. Though, the hosts essentially batted down to nine and it proved a crucial factor having teetered at 7-167.
Number six Matt Short managed 41 before departing as the West Indies turned the screw, leaving Abbott and debutant Will Sutherland to not only see out the overs, but more importantly nudge the score past 250. Labelled a par score, it proved more than defendable.
The West Indian response never really got going as key batters fell to uncommitted shots. A fourth-wicket stand of 53 between skipper Shai Hope (29) and top-scorer Keacy Carty (40) was the most significant partnership, as Australia’s persistent bowling channels were rewarded.
Inclusion Josh Hazlewood (3-43) joined Abbott atop the wickets column, while Sutherland was both economical and effective for his 2-28. Hazlewood will remain in Sydney while Australia travels to Canberra, with fellow quick Spencer Johnson added to the squad for game three.
SCORECARD
RESULT: Australia def. West Indies by 83 runs.
POTM: Sean Abbott (Australia)
TOSS: West Indies won the toss and elected to bowl.
Australia 9-258 (50)
Sean Abbott 69 (63), Matt Short 41 (55), Cameron Green 33 (41)
Gudakesh Motie 3-28 (10), Romario Shepherd 2-50 (8), Alzarri Joseph 2-74 (9)
West Indies 10-175 (43.3)
Keacy Carty 40 (51), Shai Hope 29 (65), Roston Chase 25 (41)
Sean Abbott 3-40 (10), Josh Hazlewood 3-43 (8), Will Sutherland 2-28 (8)
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