West Indies claimed a thrilling seven-run victory in the first T20I on New Zealand soil, thanks to an outstanding bowling performance. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner raised hopes for the hosts with a remarkable innings, but the visitors ultimately prevailed despite his heroics.

Having arrived in New Zealand just two days earlier, West Indies initially struggled on the Eden Park pitch but managed to post 164 for 6 in their 20 overs.

The bowling-friendly surface made life difficult for the batters, while the Caribbean side maintained excellent control with the ball. New Zealand’s hopes rested largely on captain Santner, who breathed life into the contest with an unbeaten 55 off just 28 balls. However, he found little support at the other end, and the hosts eventually finished on 157 for 9.

Earlier, New Zealand won the toss and elected to field. West Indies were in trouble during the powerplay after losing both openers. Brandon King was dismissed for 3 and Alick Athanaze for 16, leaving the visitors at 32 for 2 after six overs.

After a cautious start, captain Shai Hope gradually opened up and guided the innings forward. At the halfway stage, West Indies were 66 for 3. They then accelerated, scoring 34 runs in the next three overs.

Hope reached his half-century off 38 balls but was bowled by Jacob Duffy on the very next delivery for 53.

Roston Chase and Rovman Powell took charge in the closing stages, adding 49 runs off 33 balls. Powell was the more aggressive of the pair, scoring 33 off 23 deliveries, including two sixes and two fours. Chase made 28 off 27 balls, with one four and one six, helping West Indies reach 164 for 6. Even so, the total appeared slightly below par—but the match turned around through their bowling.

West Indies pacer Matthew Forde conceded just nine runs in three powerplay overs and claimed one wicket. Jayden Seales then put the Black Caps under further pressure, dismissing Daryl Mitchell (13) and Michael Bracewell (1) within three deliveries in the 13th over. His double strike shifted the momentum. Seales finished with 3 for 32 in four overs.

Santner’s late assault revived New Zealand’s hopes, but the hosts needed 20 runs in the final over. He could not complete the task. Nevertheless, Santner and Duffy set a New Zealand record for a 10th-wicket partnership, remaining unbeaten on a combined 50 runs.

Roston Chase was also impressive with the ball, taking three wickets for 26 runs. His contributions with both bat and ball earned him the Player of the Match award.

/SA/November 5, 2025/