New Zealand crushed West Indies by 8 wickets in the 5th T20 International at the University Oval, Dunedin,onto clinch the five-match T20I series 3-1
After winning the toss, New Zealand captain choose to bowl first a decision that paid off immediately. The West Indies struggled to get going as Kiwi pacers. The Caribbean side was reduced to 48/5 in 6.2 overs, putting them on the back foot early.
Roston Chase provided some stability with a fighting 38 off 32 balls, and Jason Holder 20 valuable runs,while Romario Shepherd added a quick 36 off 22 balls, including 3 fours and 3 sixes. Despite their efforts, the rest of the batting lineup collapsed under relentless Kiwi bowling pressure.
West Indies were bowled out for 140 in 18.4 overs.
Jacob Duffy was the star with the ball, claiming 4 wickets for 35 runs, while James Neesham hipped with 2 wickets and Sodhi, Santner, Bracewell and Jamieson got 1 wicket each.
Chasing 141 runs for victory, New Zealand’s openers came out with positive intent and aggressive stroke play. Devon Conway anchored the innings brilliantly, remaining unbeaten with a fluent 47 off 42 balls*, while young gun Tim Robinson played an explosive knock of 45 off 24 balls to give the hosts a fiery start.
Their opening partnership of 69 runs in just 43 balls took the game away from the visitors within the powerplay. After Robinson’s dismissal, Rachin Ravindra added 21 runs off 16 deliveries ,Mark Chapman (21 off 13) kept the momentum going with a quick cameo, ensuring there were no hiccups in the chase.
New Zealand reached the target comfortably in just 15.4 overs, finishing at 141/2, sealing a commanding 8-wicket win and wrapping up the series 3-1 in five matches series.
While Romario Shepherd and Sharmar Springer get 1 wicket each.
NZ vs Wi 5th T20i Match summary
Toss: New Zealand won the toss and Opted to bowl first
West Indies innings: 140/10 in 18.4 overs
Top performer: Roston chase 38 runs off 32 deliveries, Jacob Duffy 4/35 in 4 overs
New Zealand innings: 141/2 in 15.4 overs
Top performer: Devon Conway 47 off 42 balls, Sharmar Springer 1/8 in 2 overs .
Player of the match: Jacob Duffy 4/35 in 4 overs
Player of the series: Jacob Duffy in 5 matches 10 wickets.