The West Indies vs New Zealand 1st T20I 2025 saw a thrilling finish at Eden Park. The visitors held their nerve to secure a seven-run win. Despite Mitchell Santner’s explosive late surge, West Indies defended 164 to go 1-0 up in the five-match series.
Hope and Chase Lead West Indies’ Charge
Shai Hope anchored the innings with a gritty 53 off 39 balls after West Indies slipped to 43 for 3 early on. Roston Chase provided crucial support, playing a steady hand during the middle overs. He then contributed with the ball. His all-round brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award.
Hope’s calm innings steadied the visitors on a bouncy Eden Park pitch. Once set, he accelerated the scoring, smashing Zakary Foulkes for a six to bring up his fifty. Unfortunately, he fell the very next delivery. His knock proved vital as West Indies posted 164 for 6.
The first West Indies vs New Zealand 1st T20I 2025 wasn’t dominated by big totals, but by discipline and composure. Rovman Powell’s quick-fire 33 and Chase’s smart partnerships kept the innings together. This was despite New Zealand’s tight bowling led by Jacob Duffy.
Chase and Forde Restrict New Zealand’s Batting
Matthew Forde made an excellent comeback from injury, swinging the ball dangerously and removing Devon Conway early. His three-over spell in the powerplay set the tone for the West Indies. Meanwhile, Chase controlled the middle overs with sharp turn and smart changes of pace, finishing with 3 for 26.
Naseem Seales joined the act with three wickets of his own as New Zealand collapsed. They went from 70 for 2 to 107 for 9. However, the momentum shifted dramatically when Mitchell Santner launched a late counterattack.
Santner’s Late Fireworks Not Enough
Captain Mitchell Santner almost pulled off a miraculous chase. He smashed 55 not out from 28 balls, striking seven fours and a six. This ignited hopes of a comeback. With 20 needed off the last over, Romario Shepherd kept his cool. He defended the total successfully to hand West Indies a hard-fought victory.
Despite the defeat, New Zealand’s Duffy stood out with figures of 2 for 19, bowling accurately both upfront and at the death. The hosts will aim to bounce back in the next match of the West Indies vs New Zealand T20I 2025 series.
