West Indies secured a seven-run victory over New Zealand in the first T20I of their five-match series in Auckland. This marks New Zealand's fourth consecutive T20I loss at Eden Park, a streak not seen since January 2016 to February 2018.
Despite Powell's comment during the second innings that their total was 20 runs short of par, West Indies' bowlers performed strongly early on.
“Our total was 20 runs short of par,” said Rovman Powell during the second innings.
Jayden Seales (3-32) and Roston Chase (3-26) dismantled the New Zealand batting lineup, reducing them to 107-9. Only Mitchell Santner managed a significant score, remaining unbeaten with 55 runs.
New Zealand required 56 runs from the last 18 balls. Santner scored an impressive 36 runs in two overs, creating a tense finale, but West Indies held their nerve in Romario Shepherd’s last over to claim victory.
Author's summary: West Indies clinched a narrow win in the 1st T20I against New Zealand, with solid bowling and timely batting overcoming a strong Santner fightback.