Black Caps Edge West Indies in a Thrilling T20I
The West Indies staged a late fightback but fell short again as the Black Caps secured a tense nine-run victory in Nelson, taking a 2-1 lead in their Twenty20 International (T20I) series.
Match Summary
New Zealand appeared poised for a comfortable win after restricting the visitors to 88-8 by the 13th over while chasing 178. However, a 78-run partnership between Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer set up a nail-biting finish at Saxton Oval.
Key wickets by Jacob Duffy and Kyle Jamieson in the last two overs clinched the win for New Zealand. The Black Caps aim to seal the series in the fourth game tomorrow, also in Nelson.
Player Performances
- Opening batter Devon Conway was the top scorer with 56 runs, his highest T20I score in New Zealand since a 63 against Australia last year.
- Ish Sodhi, awarded man of the match, excelled with the ball, taking 3-34 and contributing to five wickets overall.
Team Changes and Toss
The Black Caps made two changes: illness ruled out former man-of-the-match Mark Chapman, replaced by Mitch Hay, and Jimmy Neesham came in for Zak Foulkes.
After winning the toss, New Zealand opted to bat first. Conway and Tim Robinson built a 47-run opening stand before Robinson was caught and bowled for 23 by Matthew Forde.
"New Zealand looked set to claim a big win, as they limited the visitors to 88-8 in the 13th over...an 78-run partnership between Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer set up a thrilling finish."
"Ish Sodhi, who was named man of the match, was dominant with the ball, finishing with 3-34, while having a hand in five of their wickets."
Author's summary: The Black Caps overcame a strong final partnership from the West Indies to secure a dramatic nine-run win and take a 2-1 lead in their T20I series.