ENG vs WI 2025, 2nd ODI Review: Joe Root's masterclass sails hosts to series win

England sealed the three-match ODI series 2-0 with a thrilling three-wicket victory against the West Indies in the second match at Cardiff on June 1. Joe Root’s sensational century guided The Three Lions to a memorable win at the Sophia Gardens.

After winning the toss, England captain Harry Brook chose to bowl first, as Brydon Carse struck in the early over of the innings, dismissing Jewel Andrew for a duck. But, the West Indies recovered through the second-wicket partnership between Brandon King and Keacy Carty, who added 141 runs. King, the senior of the two, was eventually dismissed for 59.

Carty was then joined by skipper Shai Hope, contributing a 58-run stand for the third wicket. Carty reached a fine century before falling for 103, while Hope continued to score 78 off 66 balls. Despite their efforts, the rest of the batting line-up struggled under pressure from the English bowlers.

The visitors were eventually bowled out for 308, with an excellent bowling display from Adil Rashid, who picked up four wickets for 63 runs in his 10 overs. Saqib Mahmood also chipped in with three wickets, conceding just 37 runs in 9.4 overs.

The chase got off to a shaky start, with openers Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett dismissed for ducks. Root and captain Harry Brook then steadied the innings while adding 85 runs in 61 balls for the third wicket before the latter was dismissed for 47.

Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell fell in quick succession, too, but Root formed a great partnership with Will Jacks. The duo stitched a crucial 143-run stand for the sixth wicket. Jacks missed out on a half-century and fell for 49, but the experienced Root remained and anchored the chase.

His unbeaten 166 off 139 balls, including 21 fours and two sixes, ensured England crossed the finish line with just three wickets to spare. For the Caribbean side, Alzarri Joseph delivered a brilliant bowling performance, taking 4 for 31 in his 10-over spell, which included a maiden.

After showing a dominating display in the first ODI with a massive 238-run win, the hosts have now secured the series. The third and final ODI is scheduled for June 3 at The Oval, London, as Brook & Co. will want to end the series with a whitewash before they move on for three T20Is.