ON THIS DAY IN CRICKET: On April 3, 2016, Carlos Brathwaite etched his name into cricketing history with one of the most dramatic performances the game has ever seen. In the final of the ICC World Twenty20,
the West Indies were chasing 156 against England in a thrilling contest at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The match, on this day, had already seen its fair share of excitement, but the real drama unfolded in the final over.
The West Indies needed 19 runs to win from the last six balls, and England’s all-rounder, Ben Stokes, had the ball in his hand. With the weight of the entire West Indies cricketing legacy on his shoulders, Carlos Brathwaite delivered one of the most iconic moments in T20 cricket.
Brathwaite, who had already shown glimpses of his power-hitting ability, unleashed a relentless barrage of sixes. Four consecutive sixes off Stokes’ bowling sealed the deal, as West Indies cruised to victory by 4 wickets.
#CHAMPION #WT20 #WI pic.twitter.com/oFQOsCdO0q
— ICC (@ICC) April 3, 2016
With those four towering sixes, Brathwaite had not only won the match for his team but also delivered the West Indies’ second ICC World T20 title. His performance that night became a defining moment in T20 cricket, marking him as one of the most memorable finishers in the game.
Where Is Carlos Brathwaite Now?
Since his remarkable World T20 performance, Carlos Brathwaite’s career has been a mixture of highs and lows. While his World Cup triumph made him a global star, his journey post-2016 has seen a combination of ups and downs, both in international cricket and T20 leagues.
What a last over from Carlos Brathwaite! – 24 off the last 4 balls! #WI are the first double champions! #WT20Final pic.twitter.com/WVQHgJb0pb
— ICC (@ICC) April 3, 2016
International Cricket
Brathwaite continued to play for the West Indies in all formats after the 2016 World T20 victory, but his form has been inconsistent.
Though he played in several T20Is and ODIs, he has not been able to maintain a regular place in the national team in recent years. His role as a middle-order hitter and bowler hasn’t been enough to secure him a permanent spot in the playing XI.
Retirement and Reduced International Appearances
Brathwaite has not officially announced his retirement from international cricket, but he has not been actively involved in West Indies’ squads as of late. The emergence of younger all-rounders and the changing dynamics of West Indies cricket have reduced his opportunities for selection.
T20 Leagues
Despite not being a constant presence in the West Indies national team, Brathwaite has continued to play in T20 leagues around the world. He’s been a prominent figure in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the Big Bash League (BBL), and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). His all-round abilities and his legacy as a finisher make him a valuable asset for teams in these fast-paced formats.
Coaching and Mentorship
In recent years, Carlos has focused on his post-playing career, transitioning into mentoring and coaching roles. He has worked as a mentor for teams, helping develop young cricketers, especially in the Caribbean. Brathwaite is passionate about giving back to the game and has taken up commentary and analysis roles as well, sharing his insights into the modern T20 game.
Off-Field Ventures
Off the field, Carlos has become involved in various projects, including media and cricket coaching. He’s also involved in community work and has expressed a desire to inspire the next generation of cricketers from the West Indies.
Though his international career may have slowed down in recent years, Carlos Brathwaite’s contribution to cricket, especially the 2016 World T20 final, remains one of the most unforgettable moments in the sport’s history.
