1999: Jacobs hold his nerve as Windies edge England in thriller (Barbados)

The second ODI of England’s 1997–98 tour of the West Indies was played at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, on 1 April 1998.

Batting first, England posted a competitive 266, built around a fine innings from Nick Knight, who scored 90 off 107 deliveries.

Mark Ealham provided valuable late acceleration with 45 from 37 balls, while Mark Ramprakash contributed 29. Phil Simmons was the leading West Indies bowler, taking three wickets for 46 runs.

West Indies began positively through Clayton Lambert and Philo Wallace, but England’s bowlers made regular inroads.

The innings was revived by a magnificent fourth-wicket partnership between Stuart Williams, who scored 68, and Carl Hooper, who made 66. Their 132-run stand brought the hosts firmly back into contention and set up a thrilling finish.

Matthew Fleming claimed three wickets, while Adam Hollioake took two as England fought desperately to defend their total.

The closing stages produced a tense finish at Kensington Oval, with West Indies needing to hold their nerve against a determined English attack.

Ridley Jacobs remained unbeaten on 28, and Courtney Walsh provided crucial support as the hosts reached 267 for nine in 49.5 overs, winning by one wicket with one ball remaining.

The victory levelled the five-match ODI series at 1–1, following England’s success in the opening match. Nick Knight was named Man of the Match for his excellent 90.