Shamar Springer gave hope to WI at the death overs [Source: @WindiesCricket/X.com]
It was yet another nerve-racking encounter between New Zealand and the West Indies at Saxton Oval in Nelson. Brilliant knocks from Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Romario Shepherd, and Alick Athanaze were the highlights of a thrilling contest. With the ball, Jacob Duffy and Ish Sodhi shone, while Kyle Jamieson produced a special final over to guide New Zealand home. Let’s take a look at how things unfolded at Saxton Oval on Sunday.
Mitchell, Conway stitch up substantial total for the Kiwis
New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat first, with Devon Conway getting off to a strong start and scoring a fine half-century. The Kiwis, however, suffered an early scare with Tim Robinson’s dismissal just at the end of the powerplay.
Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell accelerated the scoring to take the team to a substantial total of 177 at the end of 20 overs. For the West Indies, Matthew Forde was the pick of the bowlers alongside Jason Holder, both claiming two wickets each.
Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer also contributed with one wicket apiece to briefly stall New Zealand’s momentum.
Shepherd’s big try only ends in vain
Chasing 178, the West Indies had an early setback as opener Amir Jangoo fell on the first ball of the second over. Alick Athanaze, however, kept the innings alive along with Akeem Auguste, who scored a quick 24 off 16 balls.
However, Jacob Duffy and Ish Sodhi dismantled the West Indies middle order, and by the 12th over, Jason Holder’s dismissal left the visitors reeling at 83/7, seemingly out of the contest.
Yet, Romario Shepherd’s fighting 49 off 34 balls and Shamar Springer’s 17th and 18th over swings reignited hope for the Caribbean side. The match went down to the final over, with Kyle Jamieson tasked to defend 12 runs.
After a dot ball and two singles, Shepherd’s dismissal on the penultimate delivery sealed New Zealand’s victory. Jamieson roared in celebration as New Zealand went 2–1 up in the five-match series.
