Wicketkeeper-batter Shemaine Campbelle produced a magnificent unbeaten knock of 90 runs off 62 balls on Saturday to guide the West Indies to a seven-wicket victory over defending champions New Zealand
in their opening match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Southampton.
Chasing a target of 163, the Caribbean side reached 164/3 in 19.5 overs to begin their campaign on a winning note. Campbelle anchored the innings brilliantly, remaining unbeaten until the end and ensuring there were no late hiccups in the chase.
Batting at No. 3, Campbelle led from the front with a composed yet aggressive innings that included seven boundaries and three sixes. She found an able partner in captain Hayley Matthews, who contributed 48 runs from 37 deliveries. The pair added a crucial 74 runs for the second wicket off 61 balls, putting the West Indies firmly in control of the run chase.
After Matthews fell two runs short of a half-century, Campbelle continued to dominate the New Zealand bowling attack and stitched together valuable partnerships with the middle order to take her side over the finish line with one ball to spare.
Earlier, New Zealand posted 162/7 in their allotted 20 overs after being asked to bat first. The White Ferns were powered by useful contributions from their top and middle order, but the West Indies bowlers did well to prevent them from posting a bigger total.
Despite entering the tournament as defending champions, New Zealand struggled to contain the West Indies batters during the chase and eventually suffered a disappointing defeat in their opening fixture.
The convincing victory gives the West Indies a major boost in Group-stage standings, while New Zealand will be eager to bounce back in their next match and keep their title defence on track.
