New Zealand Edges West Indies by 3 Runs in Thrilling T20I; Series Levelled 1-1
Digital Desk
New Zealand secured a thrilling three-run victory over the West Indies in the second T20I on Thursday, leveling the three-match series 1-1. Sent in to bat first, the Kiwis posted a formidable 207-5, powered by a breathtaking innings from Mark Chapman, who smashed 78 runs off just 28 balls. Chapman’s explosive knock, featuring six boundaries and seven sixes, set the tone for a high-scoring encounter and shifted momentum decisively in New Zealand’s favour.
Tim Robinson (39) provided a solid start at the top, while Daryl Mitchell contributed an unbeaten 28 off 14 deliveries to bolster the total. Chapman’s carnage came between the 13th and 16th overs, including a 24-run over off Romario Shepherd and a 26-run over off Jayden Seales, propelling New Zealand from 83-2 after 12 overs to 163-3 by the 16th. Although Chapman was dismissed in the 17th over, caught by Jason Holder, his innings had already laid the foundation for a competitive total.
Chasing 208, the West Indies struggled initially, reduced to 94-6 by the 13th over due to disciplined New Zealand bowling, particularly from the spin attack. However, the lower order fought back impressively, led by Rovman Powell’s blistering 45 off 16 balls, supported by Romario Shepherd (34 off 16) and Matthew Forde (29 not out). The match came down to the final over, with the Windies needing 16 runs. Kyle Jamieson held his nerve, conceding just 13 runs to seal a narrow win for New Zealand.
Chapman, who also took three catches during the innings, was named Player of the Match. “The West Indies boys, they’re so strong they’re never really out of the game. It was amazing that the boys held their nerve at the end,” he said post-match.
With the series tied 1-1, both teams will clash in the remaining back-to-back T20Is in Nelson on Sunday and Monday, setting the stage for an exciting series decider.
