In a thrilling display at Eden Gardens, Rovman Powell has etched his name in the annals of T20 cricket history. Batting first against India in what appears to be a warm-up for the 2026 T20 World Cup, West Indies posted a formidable 195/4 in 20 overs. Powell’s explosive unbeaten 34 off just 19 balls, featuring two massive sixes, propelled him past Nicholas Pooran to become the West Indies’ all-time leading six-hitter in T20s with 150 maximums.
The Caribbean side’s innings kicked off on a high note. Captain Shai Hope and Roston Chase forged a solid 68-run opening stand. Hope fell for 32 off 33 balls to Varun Chakaravarthy, while Chase unleashed aggression, smashing 40 off 25 with five fours and a six. Shimron Hetmyer contributed a quick 27 off 12, but couldn’t convert. Sherfane Rutherford managed 14 off 9 before Powell and Jason Holder took charge.
Their fifth-wicket partnership of 76 off 35 balls turned the game. Holder remained not out on 37 off 22, blasting three sixes and two fours. Powell’s finishing touches included those record-breaking sixes against India, surpassing Pooran’s 149.
India’s bowlers struggled. Jasprit Bumrah was the standout with 2/36 in four overs. Hardik Pandya and Varun Chakaravarthy picked one wicket each, while Arshdeep Singh leaked 43 runs. Powell’s milestone not only boosted West Indies’ total but also signals their big-hitting intent ahead of future clashes.