Sean Abbott exhibited his all-round skills and powered Australia to a series-deciding 83-run win over the West Indies in the second one-day International on Sunday.
Abbott made a better than a run-a-ball 69 and lifted Australia to a competitive 258/9 at his home ground after the West Indies won the toss and opted to field.
The tall fast bowler then struck inside the batting Powerplay before he picked up the key wicket of Keacy Carty, who top-scored with 40, in his return spell to finish with 3/40 as the Windies was held to 175 all out in 43.3 overs.
“We thought 220 would be competitive, but we were very competitive with partnerships, taking it over 250,” Abbott said. “It’s a really good (Australian) attack. It’s such a good environment. I’ve been enjoying it. Love getting out there and playing in front of a home crowd.”
Just like at the MCG two days ago where Australia romped to an eight-wicket win in the first game, the West Indies top order stuttered against pace in their run-chase.
Abbott grabbed a superb catch at mid-off when Alick Athanaze tried to go hard at Aaron Hardie and Jason Greaves was well caught by debutante Will Sutherland over his head before Abbott had the West Indies reeling at 34/3 inside the first 10 overs.
Carty and captain Shai Hope (29) rebuilt the chase with a 53-run stand before both fell in Josh Hazlewood’s (3/43) and Abbott’s return spells. The West Indies skipper lost his off stump to a brilliant Hazlewood ball that nipped back at the right-hander.