New Zealand secured a fine 3-1 series victory over the West Indies in the five-match T20I series, wrapping it up with a dominant eight-wicket win in the final game. The hosts showcased their all-round strength, restricting the visitors to a modest total before comfortably chasing it down to claim the series.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl first, New Zealand’s pacers immediately applied pressure. The West Indies batters struggled to find rhythm and were eventually bowled out for 140 in 18.4
overs. Roston Chase top-scored with a patient 38 runs, while Romario Shepherd provided late fireworks with a quick 36, helping the visitors reach a somewhat respectable score. The star of the innings was Jacob Duffy, who produced an excellent spell of 4 for 35 in his four overs, dismantling and keeping the Caribbean batters in check.
In response, New Zealand’s chase was clinical and composed. Openers Devon Conway (47*) and Tim Robinson (45) set the tone with a solid partnership for the first wicket, ensuring there were no early hiccups. Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman, who each contributed 21 runs, kept the momentum going as the hosts gained a comfortable win, reaching 141/2 in just 15.4 overs. The Caribbean bowlers, lacking consistency and control, were punished all over the park and failed to pose any real challenge in the game.
The series had begun promisingly for the West Indies, who won the first match by seven runs, thanks to an all-round performance from Chase. However, the Mitchell Santner-led side bounced back strongly, edging the next two matches by three runs and nine runs respectively. The second T20I featured a blistering innings from Chapman, while the third match saw Ish Sodhi’s spin tighten the screws on the visiting batters. The fourth tie was washed out due to rain, setting up a must-win scenario for the West Indies in the final game, which they ultimately lost, also conceding the series.
Duffy was deservedly named Player of the Series for his 10 wickets in five matches. Both teams now shift focus to the three-match ODI series, beginning November 16 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.
