New Zealand vs West Indies, 1st T20I: Match Summary
West Indies defeated New Zealand by seven runs in the first T20I of their five-match series in Auckland. This marked New Zealand’s fourth consecutive T20I loss at Eden Park, a streak not seen since early 2016 to 2018.
Batting Highlights
West Indies had a shaky start as openers Brandon King (3) and Alick Athanaze (16) fell early in the powerplay, followed quickly by Ackeem Auguste (2). Captain Shai Hope stabilized the innings with 53 runs, supported by Roston Chase, who scored 28. Rovman Powell added a quickfire 33 off 23 balls, helping the visitors set a competitive target of 165.
"Our total was 20 runs short of par," said Rovman Powell during the second innings, but praised the team's bowling effort.
Bowling and New Zealand's Chase
The West Indies bowlers struck early, with Jayden Seales taking 3 wickets for 32 runs and Roston Chase claiming 3 for 26. The New Zealand batting lineup struggled, collapsing to 107 for 9, with only Mitchell Santner reaching a notable score.
Santner remained unbeaten on 55, attempting to lead New Zealand to an unlikely victory. Despite needing 56 runs from the last 18 balls, Santner’s 36 runs in two overs were not enough as the West Indies held their nerve in the final over by Romario Shepherd.
"Mitchell Santner's unbeaten fifty goes in vain for Black Caps."
Series Outlook
- West Indies lead the T20I series 1-0.
- New Zealand faces pressure to break their losing streak at Eden Park.
Author’s summary: West Indies secured a crucial seven-run win over New Zealand in a tense first T20I at Eden Park, maintained by their strong bowling despite a late surge from Mitchell Santner.