My third six off “legend” Stokes was a fluke, admits West indies World Twenty20 hero Brathwaite
West Indies hero Carlos Brathwaite admits that he fluked the third of his four brutal sixes which propelled his side to World Twenty20 glory against England at Eden Gardens on Sunday.
Brathwaite launched a ferocious last-over assault on England all-rounder Ben Stokes and clubbed the 24-year-old for successive maximums as West Indies chased down the 19 runs needed for a nail-biting victory.
His third six over long off levelled the scores with three balls still remaining, although the 27-year-old insisted that particular instalment of his ruthless onslaught was mis-placed.
“I miscued the third one, but a 65-metre six and a 94-metre six are still runs,” said Brathwaite. “I just got over it, kind of spooned it over long off. And then I knew the West Indies are world champions, but I didn’t want to get too far ahead of myself.”
Stokes and West Indies batsman Marlon Samuels, who have history, were involved in an angry exchange during the final over, for which the latter was charged 30 per cent of his match fee.
Samuels was unrepentant during a post-match press conference and taunted his foe, suggesting that Stokes should be aware that any attempts to sledge him would backfire.
Brathwaite appeared to have more sympathy for Stokes, who was distraught after the match’s dramatic climax and had to be consoled by members of the England team.
“To Ben, tough luck, commiserations to you and the England team,” added Brathwaite. “I wish he has a long and successful career ahead of him. He is a legend in his own right.
“You shouldn’t forget what he has done for England in the past couple of months. A lot of people can be on him, but just remember Stuart Broad was hit for six sixes by Yuvraj Singh, and his career has gone on the up ever since.”
Four England players, meanwhile, have been named in the International Cricket Council’s team of the tournament. Opener Jason Roy, batsman Joe Root, wicketkeeper Jos Buttler and all-rounder David Willey were all selected, which means England were the most represented side in the XI. Skipper Charlotte Edwards and seamer Anya Shrubsole featured in the women’s team.