West Indies Launch T20 World Cup Campaign with Record-Breaking Batting Display
In a thrilling start to their ICC Men's T20 World Cup campaign, the West Indies cricket team posted a formidable total of 182/5 against Scotland in Kolkata, India, on February 7, 2026. The innings was highlighted by historic performances from Shimron Hetmyer and Brandon King, who both surpassed milestones set by the legendary Chris Gayle.
Hetmyer's Blistering Knock Sets New Benchmark
Shimron Hetmyer stole the spotlight with a scintillating innings of 64 runs off just 36 balls, striking at an impressive rate of over 177. His knock included two fours and six massive sixes, but the standout moment came when he reached his fifty in a mere 22 deliveries. This achievement broke the previous record held by Chris Gayle, who had scored a 23-ball fifty against Australia during the 2009 T20 World Cup edition, making Hetmyer the fastest West Indies batter to a half-century in the tournament's history.
King Climbs Run-Scoring Ladder Past Gayle
Brandon King also made headlines during his innings of 35 runs from 30 balls, which featured four boundaries and a six. More significantly, King overtook Chris Gayle to become the third-highest run-getter in T20 Internationals for West Indies. King now boasts 1,916 runs in 79 matches, with an average of 26.61 and a strike rate of 133.89, including 14 fifties and a best score of 85*. In comparison, Gayle had accumulated 1,899 runs in 79 matches, with an average of 27.92 and a strike rate of 137.50, along with two centuries and 14 fifties.
Supporting Acts and Team Effort
The West Indies innings was built on solid partnerships and contributions from multiple players. Skipper Shai Hope provided a steady start with 19 runs, but after the team slipped to 58/2, Hetmyer combined with Rovman Powell for a crucial 81-run stand for the third wicket. Powell contributed a quickfire 24 off 14 balls, hitting four boundaries and two sixes. In the death overs, Sherfane Rutherford showcased his prowess by scoring 26 runs in just 13 balls, striking at 200.00, with four boundaries and a six. This year, Rutherford has been exceptional in the 16-20 over phase, amassing 258 runs in T20Is at an average of 51.6 and a strike rate of 204.76.
Romario Shepherd and Matthew Forde remained unbeaten on 6 and 1 runs respectively, guiding the West Indies to a competitive total of 182/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Scotland, who won the toss and elected to bowl first, saw Brad Currie emerge as their top bowler with figures of 2/23.
Implications for the Tournament
This commanding performance sets a strong tone for the West Indies in the T20 World Cup, demonstrating their batting depth and ability to break records. With Hetmyer and King leading the charge, the team has sent a clear message to their competitors. The match against Scotland serves as a promising start, and fans will be eager to see if the West Indies can maintain this momentum throughout the tournament.
