The T20 World Cup 2026 clash between West Indies and England at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium delivered drama both on and off the field, with former West Indies pacer and commentator Ian Bishop personally inspecting the dew by lying flat on the outfield.
With pre-match chatter dominated by how dew might influence the contest, Bishop stepped out of the commentary box and made his way to the long-on boundary. Stretching out on the turf as if testing a mattress, he ran his hands across the grass to gauge moisture levels. His verdict: far less dew than typically expected in Mumbai.
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England captain Harry Brook had earlier opted to bowl after winning the toss, pointing to Wankhede’s chasing-friendly record and the anticipated assistance dew would offer under lights. West Indies skipper Shai Hope admitted he too would have preferred to field first but emphasised the importance of setting the tone with the bat. As it turned out, the feared dew never truly materialised, a factor Hope later acknowledged.
West Indies’ innings began shakily at 8 for 2, but Sherfane Rutherford steadied the ship with a commanding unbeaten 76 off 42 balls. He forged crucial partnerships with Jason Holder and Rovman Powell as the Caribbean side surged late, hammering 66 runs in the final five overs to post 196 for 6.
England’s reply started blazingly. Phil Salt smashed 30 off just 14 deliveries, powering England to 67 for 1 in the Powerplay. However, Gudakesh Motie swung the momentum with a decisive 3 for 33, dismissing Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell and Brook. Roston Chase tightened the screws with 2 for 29, including the prized scalp of Jos Buttler.
Despite Sam Curran’s unbeaten 43, England were bowled out for 166 in 19 overs, as West Indies sealed a comprehensive 30-run victory.
