The much-anticipated New Zealand vs West Indies 1st T20 International marks the beginning of a high-intensity five-match series at Eden Park, Auckland, on November 5, 2025. Both teams will be eager to make a strong start, with New Zealand seeking redemption on home soil and West Indies aiming to continue their impressive performance in the shortest format.
The Black Caps are eager to bounce back after a disappointing T20I series defeat against Australia and England. Tim Seifert ruled out from West Indies series due to Finger broken, Devon Conway back in team place of Seifert open with Rachin Ravindra will provide steady starts, Tim Robinson, Daryl Mitchell and Mark Chapman provide stability in middle order while James Neesham, Mitchell Santner and Micheal Bracewell add balance with all round ability , Zakary Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson will lead pace bowling attack and Ish Sodhi provide spin option along with Mitchell Santner.
On the other hand West Indies arrive with full of confidence , recently clinched 3-0 T20I series against Bangladesh , Alick Athanaze and Brendon king open the Innings will provide brisk start set tone for the team while Shai Hope, Sherfane Rutherford and Roston chase will provide stability in middle order and Rovman Powell, Romario shepherd and Jason Holder provide more balance with all round ability also add more firepower at lower order, however Akeal Hosein provide spin option, alongwith Roston chase and Jayden Seales and Jason Holder lead pace attack.
New Zealand vs West Indies Head to Head in T20I
Total matches played: 20
New Zealand won: 10
West Indies won: 5
No Results: 2
Tied: 3
Pitch Report
Eden Park is renowned for its short straight boundaries and high-scoring encounters. The pitch generally favors batters, with the ball coming nicely onto the bat, especially under lights. However, with new bowl could offer some movement for fast bowlers, making the first few overs crucial. Teams batting first often post competitive totals around 170–185 runs. Dew could play a role later in the match, making chasing a slightly easier option.
Probable playing XIs
New Zealand
Devon Conway (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Micheal Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Ish Sodhi, Kyle Jamieson, Zakary Foulkes
West Indies
Alick Athanaze, Brendon king, Shai Hope (wk/c), Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell, Rostan Chase, Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Jayden Seales, Khary Pierre
Players to watch out
Daryl Mitchell
Tim Robinson
Zakary Foulkes
Brendon king
Romario shepherd
Jayden Seales
Prediction
The match promises to be evenly poised, but considering their current form and momentum, West Indies hold a slight edge. However, New Zealand’s home advantage and familiarity with the conditions could balance the scales. A close finish is expected.