New Zealand vs West Indies, 1st T20I: Match Summary
West Indies secured a seven-run victory over New Zealand in the first T20I at Eden Park, Auckland, marking New Zealand’s fourth consecutive T20I loss at this venue, a streak not seen since 2016-2018.
West Indies Innings Highlights
The West Indies had a shaky start with openers Brandon King (3) and Alick Athanaze (16) falling early in the powerplay, followed soon by Ackeem Auguste (2). Captain Shai Hope stabilized the innings with 53 runs, supported by Roston Chase’s 28. Rovman Powell’s quickfire 33 off 23 balls helped set a competitive total of 165.
“Our total was 20 runs short of par,” said Rovman Powell when mic’d up during the second innings.
New Zealand Batting Collapse
West Indies bowlers dominated early in the chase. Jayden Seales took 3 wickets for 32 runs, and Roston Chase claimed 3 wickets conceding 26 runs, decimating the New Zealand lineup to 107 for 9. Only Mitchell Santner resisted, scoring an unbeaten 55 runs.
Thrilling Finish
With 56 runs required from the last 18 balls, Santner added 36 runs over two overs, pushing the hosts close, but West Indies held their nerve in Romario Shepherd’s final over to clinch victory.
Mitchell Santner’s unbeaten fifty went in vain for the Black Caps.
Key Performers
- Shai Hope - 53 runs
- Rovman Powell - 33 runs off 23 balls
- Mitchell Santner - 55* runs
- Jayden Seales - 3 wickets for 32 runs
- Roston Chase - 3 wickets for 26 runs, 28 runs with the bat
Author's summary: West Indies overcame a shaky start to defend 165, leveraging strong bowling and key contributions from Hope and Powell, while Santner’s resilient 55* fell short in a tense finish.