Black Caps Edge West Indies in Thrilling T20I Encounter
The West Indies staged a late fightback but ultimately fell short again in a nail-biting Twenty20 International at Nelson. The Black Caps narrowly secured a nine-run victory, moving ahead 2-1 in the series.
Match Summary
New Zealand appeared on course for a comfortable win after restricting the visitors to 88-8 by the 13th over in their chase of 178. However, a resilient 78-run partnership between Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer brought the contest to a thrilling climax at Saxton Oval.
Key wickets in the final two overs by Jacob Duffy and Kyle Jamieson sealed the win for New Zealand. The Black Caps aim to clinch the series with a victory in the fourth match, also held in Nelson.
Player Highlights
- Opening batter Devon Conway top-scored with 56, marking his best T20I score on home soil since a 63 against Australia last year.
- Ish Sodhi, awarded man of the match, dominated with the ball, taking 3 wickets for 34 runs and contributing to five dismissals overall.
Team Changes and Toss
The Black Caps made two adjustments for this fixture. Mark Chapman, man of the match in the second T20I, was sidelined due to illness and replaced by Mitch Hay. Jimmy Neesham stepped in for Zak Foulkes.
After winning the toss, New Zealand elected to bat. Conway and Tim Robinson put on a strong opening stand of 47 before Robinson was caught and bowled by Matthew Forde for 23.
"The Black Caps have survived a huge scare as they held on for a hard-fought nine-run win over the West Indies in Nelson to take a 2-1 lead in their Twenty20 International series."
"Ish Sodhi, who was named man of the match, was dominant with the ball, finishing with 3-34, while having a hand in five of their wickets."
Author's summary: New Zealand's Black Caps overcame a late West Indies rally to win a tense T20I match, moving ahead in the series with key performances from Conway and Sodhi.