New Zealand vs West Indies, 1st T20I: Match Summary
West Indies defeated New Zealand by seven runs in the opening T20I of their five-match series in Auckland. This loss marked New Zealand's fourth consecutive T20I defeat at Eden Park, a streak not seen since early 2016 to 2018.
West Indies Batting Performance
The West Indies started cautiously after losing quick wickets early in the powerplay. Openers Brandon King (3) and Alick Athanaze (16) fell early, followed soon by Ackeem Auguste (2). Captain Shai Hope anchored the innings with 53 runs, supported by Roston Chase (28). Rovman Powell’s aggressive 33 runs off 23 balls helped set a competitive target of 165.
“Our total was 20 runs short of par,” said Powell during the second innings when he was mic’d up.
New Zealand Bowling and Chase
West Indies’ bowlers dominated early during New Zealand’s chase. Jayden Seales (3 wickets for 32 runs) and Roston Chase (3 wickets for 26 runs) dismantled the Black Caps’ batting lineup, leaving only Mitchell Santner to reach 30 runs. New Zealand struggled to build partnerships and were reduced to 107 for 9.
Mitchell Santner's Effort
Mitchell Santner remained unbeaten with a valiant 55 runs but could not prevent the loss. Needing 56 runs off the final 18 balls after a collapse, Santner’s 36 runs in the last two overs provided some hope but fell short.
“Mitchell Santner's unbeaten fifty goes in vain for BlackCaps.”
Match Outcome
- West Indies won by seven runs.
- New Zealand lost their fourth straight T20I at Eden Park.
Author’s summary: West Indies secured a seven-run win in a tense first T20I against New Zealand, despite a strong unbeaten 55 from Mitchell Santner, leaving the hosts with a tough battle in the series.