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, opening their five-match series with a hard-fought win.
Match Overview
The match saw New Zealand suffer their fourth consecutive T20I defeat at Eden Park, a streak that last occurred between January 2016 and February 2018. West Indies set a target of 165 runs, which proved just enough despite a thrilling late effort from Mitchell Santner.
West Indies Innings
West Indies had a difficult beginning as openers Brandon King (3) and Alick Athanaze (16) fell early, followed by Ackeem Auguste (2). Captain Shai Hope (53) and Roston Chase (28) stabilized the innings before Rovman Powell contributed a quick 33 off 23 balls, helping the team post 164 for 9.
Powell remarked during the second innings that their total was "about 20 runs short of par."
New Zealand’s Chase
New Zealand’s batting lineup faltered against disciplined bowling from Jayden Seales (3-32) and Roston Chase (3-26). Only Mitchell Santner stood firm, scoring an unbeaten 55 as the hosts collapsed to 107-9.
The Final Overs
Needing 56 runs from the final 18 balls, Santner’s powerful hitting added 36 runs in just two overs, giving hope for a remarkable comeback. However, Romario Shepherd held his nerve in the last over to secure the victory for the West Indies.
Score Summary
- West Indies: 164/9 (20 overs)
- New Zealand: 157/9 (20 overs)
- West Indies won by 7 runs
Key Performers
- Shai Hope – 53 runs
- Rovman Powell – 33 runs
- Mitchell Santner – 55* runs
- Roston Chase – 3 wickets for 26 runs
- Jayden Seales – 3 wickets for 32 runs
Author’s Summary
West Indies claimed a tense seven-run victory over New Zealand in Auckland, capitalizing on their bowlers’ precision and Santner’s lone resistance in a dramatic finish.