Samuels Shines, But England Win Series

A sterling, unbeaten half-century from Marlon Samuels failed to brighten the gloom of another defeat as West Indies predictably plunged to a nine-wicket loss to England in the second Test at Trent Bridge yesterday.

The right-hander shone brightly with 76, an innings that helped drag West Indies from their precarious overnight score of 61 for six to 165 all out, half-hour after lunch on the fourth day.

Fast bowler Tim Bresnan picked up four for 37, while fellow pacer Jimmy Anderson claimed four for 43 to clinically finish off the Windies innings.

Set a target of 108, England coasted to victory 32 minutes after tea to secure a winning 2-0 lead in the three-Test series and keep their grip on the cherished Wisden Trophy.

Captain Andrew Strauss top-scored with 45 before perishing with victory in sight, while his opening partner Alistair Cook finished unbeaten on 43.

West Indies have now lost 17 of their last 20 Tests against the current world number one and, more strikingly, have not won a Test in England in 12 years.

They were always poised to extend this unenviable record starting the day only three runs ahead, and Samuels and captain Darren Sammy defied England for the first hour before being separated.