New Zealand vs West Indies, 1st T20I: Match Summary
West Indies secured a seven-run victory over New Zealand in the first T20I of their five-match series at Eden Park, Auckland.
Match Highlights
New Zealand suffered their fourth consecutive T20I loss at Eden Park, the longest streak since January 2016 to February 2018, when they lost five in a row.
- West Indies set a target of 165 runs, led by Shai Hope and Rovman Powell.
- Hope scored 53 runs, while Powell contributed 33 off 23 balls.
- Openers Brandon King (3) and Alick Athanaze (16) fell early, followed by Ackeem Auguste (2).
- Roston Chase added stability with 28 runs and also took key wickets.
New Zealand's Batting Effort
Mitchell Santner's unbeaten 55 was the standout performance for New Zealand, but his efforts could not prevent the team's collapse to 107-9.
"West Indies bowlers hit their stride early. Jayden Seales (3-32) and Roston Chase (3-26) rattled through the New Zealand batting order as only Santner was able to reach the 30-run mark."
New Zealand needed 56 runs from the final 18 balls, and Santner scored 36 off two overs to create a tense finish, but the visitors held on during Romario Shepherd's last over.
Player Remarks
"Our total was 20 runs short of par," said Rovman Powell, who was mic'd up during the second innings.
Bowling Impact
- Jayden Seales took 3 wickets for 32 runs.
- Roston Chase took 3 wickets for 26 runs.
- Romario Shepherd successfully defended the target in the final over.
The Windies' bowling effort was decisive in securing the win against a strong New Zealand team.
Author's summary: West Indies overcame a shaky start to defeat New Zealand by seven runs in the first T20I, with key performances from Hope, Powell, and a strong bowling display sealing a tense win.