Black Caps hold nerve to level T20 series
Kyle Jamieson kept his cool in the final over to ensure New Zealand squared the Twenty20 series 1-1 with a tense three-run victory over the West Indies at Eden Park. It was the highest-scoring T20 match between the sides.
Chasing 208, the visitors needed six runs from the last three balls, but Jamieson delivered under pressure to seal the win. Earlier, New Zealand had piled up 207 for five thanks to Mark Chapman's explosive innings.
Chapman shines with bat and in the field
Mark Chapman scored a blistering 78 from just 28 balls and later took three catches, one a stunning diving effort, earning him the man-of-the-match award. His power-hitting illuminated Eden Park for the second time in 2025.
West Indies’ late charge falls short
At 94 for six after 13 overs, West Indies appeared out of contention, but a furious late assault turned the contest. They hammered 87 runs in the final five overs, the most ever scored during a T20 chase.
“Rovman Powell almost saw the visitors home with six sixes before falling with two balls remaining.”
Powell’s remarkable 45 from 16 deliveries brought his team within touching distance of victory before Jamieson closed the game out.
Early moments and key turning point
New Zealand started strong, with Tim Robinson and Devon Conway combining for 45 runs in the first five overs. However, West Indies struck back when Matthew Forde broke the partnership, bowling Conway for 16.
Author’s Summary
New Zealand edged West Indies by three runs in a record-breaking T20, with Kyle Jamieson’s calm finish and Mark Chapman’s explosive 78 sealing the series equalizer at Eden Park.