The West Indies, in Andre Russell’s final game, suffered an 8-wicket hammering at the hands of Australia in the 2nd T20 International at Sabina Park on Monday night, as the visitors took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

Set a modest target of 173, the Aussies made light work of the chase, romping to 173 for 2 with 28 balls to spare. The emphatic win was anchored by a record-breaking, unbroken 131-run third-wicket stand between Josh Inglis and Cameron Green, which left the home fans stunned.

Inglis, who was named Player of the Match, smashed a scintillating 78 off 33 balls, including 7 fours and 5 towering sixes. Green played the perfect supporting role with 56 off 32 deliveries, decorated with 3 fours and 4 sixes. Their partnership came off just 59 balls and completely took the game away from the Caribbean side.

The West Indies were made to rue a sloppy fielding performance, dropping as many as six catches—several of them costly. Jason Holder and Alzarri Joseph were the only wicket-takers for the hosts.

Earlier, the Windies posted 172 for 8 after being sent in to bat. Brandon King got the innings off to a flyer with a sparkling 51 from 36 balls, laced with 3 fours and 4 sixes. Fan-favourite Andre Russell, in what was his farewell match in front of his home crowd, entertained with 36 runs featuring 2 fours and 4 sixes. Gudakesh Motie chipped in with 18, Roston Chase added 16, while Shimron Hetmyer and Rovman Powell managed 14 and 12 respectively.

Adam Zampa was the pick of the Australian bowlers, grabbing 3 for 29. He received good support from Nathan Ellis and Glenn Maxwell, who bagged two wickets apiece.

Despite the defeat, the moment belonged to Russell, who took a final bow in front of his home supporters. The 37-year-old, who admitted he was nervous to do well in front his home crowd one final time, received a guard of honour from both sides and cricket bat-shaped guitar wrapped in the country’s flag before the first ball to commemorate his 15-year international career.

Speaking after the match, the all-rounder reflected on the emotional occasion:

“Thanks again to the people at Sabina Park, thanks to the West Indies Cricket Board for making this possible. I’m very grateful to end my career here playing in front of my home crowd—family, friends—I think it’s very, very important for me. The result didn’t go my way, but at the end of the day, I’m happy, I’m grateful, and I wish the boys all the very best moving forward.”

The crowd gave Russell a rousing ovation, and he was visibly emotional as he addressed the fans:

“The crowd have been amazing for the last two games. Thanks again, really appreciate the turnout, and sorry the result didn’t go our way. But we tried our very best and thanks for the support again. I really, really appreciate it from everyone. At the end of the day, I feel like it’s time for me to just hang it up and wish you guys all the best. Thanks for the support and keep supporting.”

Final Scores:
West Indies: 172 for 8
Australia: 173 for 2 (Inglis 78*, Green 56*)

The teams now travel to St. Kitts for the final match of the series, where the West Indies will look to salvage some pride and give the home fans something to cheer.