The West Indies showcased an explosive batting display today, posting a formidable total of 256 for 5, largely thanks to blistering innings from openers Evin Lewis (91) and Shai Hope (51), who laid a sensational foundation with a 122-run stand in a mere 10.3 overs. Debutant Keacy Carty (49* off 22) and Romario Shepherd (19* off 6) provided the crucial late impetus, ensuring the Men in Maroon reached a mammoth score.
However, the day proved particularly challenging for Ireland debutant Liam McCarthy, who endured an unfortunate and record-breaking spell. Coming into the attack in the fourth over with the score already at 45 without loss, McCarthy’s introduction was met with immediate aggression. His first two deliveries were dispatched for sixes by Shai Hope, and he ultimately conceded 21 runs off his opening over.
McCarthy’s second over, the ninth of the innings, was equally punishing, with Evin Lewis hammering him for a six and four fours, resulting in a 24-run over. While his third and fourth overs were his “cheapest” of the day, going for 18 runs each, they still included five fours and two sixes.
By the conclusion of his spell, Liam McCarthy had conceded 81 runs, marking the most expensive spell by any player from a Full Member nation in men’s T20I history. This unfortunate record places him second overall, only behind The Gambia’s Musa Jobarteh, who conceded 93 runs against Zimbabwe last year. The previous Irish record was held by Barry McCarthy, who gave away 69 runs against Afghanistan in 2017.
