West Indies crowned champions after defeating England

Lendl Simmons and Chadwick Walton produced unbeaten half centuries to lead the West Indies Champions to a commanding nine-wicket victory over England in the World Championship of Legends final at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The pair shared an unbroken partnership of 124 runs, guiding the Caribbean side to 160 for one with 18 balls to spare after England had posted 159 for seven. Sent in to bat, England struggled early as Dwayne Bravo spearheaded the West Indies bowling attack with an impressive three-wicket haul. His spell reduced the English side to 61 for five in the 10th over, putting the innings under serious pressure. Moeen Ali provided the backbone of England’s recovery, scoring 60 off 39 deliveries, including four sixes and four fours. He combined with Owais Shah to add 54 runs for the sixth wicket, helping to rebuild the innings after the early setbacks. Ali eventually fell to Reifer in the 15th over, but Shah remained unbeaten on 38 off 28 balls. He added 28 runs with Toby Roland-Jones in an unbroken partnership to lift England to a competitive total. In reply, Chris Gayle and Simmons gave the West Indies a brisk start, putting together 42 runs inside the first six overs. Ajmal Shahzad broke the opening stand by dismissing Gayle for 21 off 14 balls. However, Simmons and Walton quickly took control, dismantling England’s bowling attack with an outstanding display of batting. Simmons smashed an unbeaten 77 off 53 deliveries, striking eight fours and three sixes, while Walton contributed 58 not out from 35 balls, with four sixes and three fours. Their dominant partnership ensured a comfortable finish for the West Indies, who sealed the championship in emphatic fashion. Walton was also recognised as Batter of the Tournament, while Shivnarine Chanderpaul received the Legend of the Tournament award. Following the triumph, a delighted Gayle said the victory would be a moment of celebration for cricket fans throughout the Caribbean. “I’m absolutely delighted for the guys," Gayle said. "England played brilliantly, and I want to congratulate them.” “Bravo and Chadwick Walton had fantastic tournaments," Gayle added. "In a final, you never know what can happen, so I gave extra energy but made sure not to pull a muscle! Chanderpaul stepped up with a terrific knock in the semifinal. This victory means so much to the Caribbean people, especially after the West Indies T20I team drew 2-2 with India."