New Zealand vs West Indies, 1st T20I: Match Summary
West Indies defeated New Zealand by seven runs in the first T20I at Eden Park, Auckland, marking New Zealand's fourth consecutive T20I loss at this venue—their longest streak since January 2016 to February 2018.
West Indies Batting Performance
The West Indies had a shaky start as openers Brandon King (3), Alick Athanaze (16), and Ackeem Auguste (2) fell early during the powerplay. Captain Shai Hope stabilized the innings with 53 runs, supported by Roston Chase’s 28. Rovman Powell accelerated the scoring with 33 off 23 balls, helping set a competitive target of 165.
"Our total was 20 runs short of par," said Rovman Powell during the second innings.
West Indies Bowling Impact
West Indies bowlers impressed early on. Jayden Seales took 3 wickets for 32 runs, while Roston Chase claimed 3 for 26, dismantling the New Zealand batting lineup. Only Mitchell Santner managed to reach 30 runs as New Zealand collapsed to 107 for 9.
New Zealand's Chase and Final Moments
Chasing 165, New Zealand required 56 runs from the last 18 balls. Mitchell Santner’s unbeaten 55 provided hope, scoring 36 runs in two overs, but the Windies’ bowling held firm in Romario Shepherd’s final over to secure the win.
"Mitchell Santner looked to pull off an unexpected win for the Black Caps," the match summary highlighted.
Key Facts
- West Indies won by 7 runs in Auckland.
- New Zealand lost four consecutive T20Is at Eden Park.
- West Indies set a target of 165 runs.
- Jayden Seales and Roston Chase took key wickets.
- Mitchell Santner scored an unbeaten 55 for New Zealand.
Author's summary: West Indies edged New Zealand by seven runs in a tense first T20I, with disciplined bowling and timely batting overcoming a late New Zealand surge led by Mitchell Santner.
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