England crush West Indies by 241 runs to take unassailable 2-0 lead in Test series

England dominated the West Indies by 241 runs in the second Test at Trent Bridge on Sunday, securing an insurmountable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Shoaib Bashir excelled, taking a slew of West Indian wickets after centuries from Joe Root and Harry Brook paved the way for England’s decisive victory.

Root and Brook, England’s seasoned batting stalwart and his emerging successor, showcased their prowess with elegant hundreds, setting up a swift path to victory on the fourth evening of the second Test.

Facing an improbable target of 385, the West Indies crumbled to 143 all out in just 36.1 overs, with the young spinner Bashir claiming five wickets for 41 runs.

The 20-year-old, who didn't bowl in the first Test at Lord’s, validated the bold decision to fast-track him ahead of the seasoned Jack Leach this summer, excelling in the crucial fourth-innings role.

Bashir bowled with finesse, using subtle variations and flight to record his third five-wicket haul in just five appearances for England.

This match marked a significant occasion as it was England’s first home Test without Stuart Broad or James Anderson since 2012. The English bowling unit performed with precision, triggering a dramatic West Indian collapse from 61 for no loss.

Chris Woakes initiated the downfall by removing both openers, Mark Wood contributed with his raw pace, and Gus Atkinson added two wickets. However, it was Bashir, the youngest player in the revamped XI, who delivered the final blow, clean bowling Shamar Joseph to the delight of the Nottingham crowd.

England now lead 2-0 with one match remaining at Edgbaston next week.