New Zealand clinched a nine-run win over the West Indies in the third T20I at Saxton Oval, Nelson, on Sunday, taking a 2–1 lead in the five-match series. Paceman Jacob Duffy and leg-spinner Ish Sodhi delivered key spells to dismantle the West Indies top order, before a late scare forced the hosts to dig deep in the final over.
Conway Leads the Way, But West Indies Bowlers Hit Back Late
Opting to bat first, New Zealand were set up by Devon Conway’s composed 56 and a strong opening stand with Tim Robinson. A 50-run stand with Rachin Ravindra further positioned the hosts for a total beyond 190.
However, a West Indies resurgence, led by Matthew Forde (2/20), Jason Holder (2/31) and Shamar Springer (1/36), triggered a collapse that saw New Zealand lose six wickets for just 35 in the final five overs, settling for 177/9, the lowest T20I score recorded at this venue.
Duffy and Sodhi Rip Through West Indies Top Order
The West Indies reply faltered early. Duffy’s movement and Sodhi’s control left the visitors stumbling at 68/6 and later 88/8, seemingly out of the contest.
But the chase was reignited by Romario Shepherd and Shamar Springer, who counter-attacked fearlessly, adding 78 runs off 39 balls to bring the game to life.
Jamieson Holds His Nerve to Seal the Game
With 12 needed off the final over, momentum was with the visitors. But Kyle Jamieson delivered at the clutch moment, removing Shepherd to close the match.
Different guys stepping up at different times is key over a five-match series. It was scrappy, but nice to be on the right side of one. Ish was outstanding again, and the bowlers adapted well.
On Jamieson’s composure, Santner added: "If he keeps doing it this well, he'll have to keep doing it! You bank that experience for what's coming up."
Hope Sees Positives Despite Narrow Defeat
West Indies captain Shai Hope remained encouraged: "Taking it to the last over means you're in the contest. Springer and Shepherd showed their all-round ability. It’s just unfortunate we didn’t get the start we needed."
Brief Scores: New Zealand 177/9 in 20 overs (Devon Conway 56, Daryl Mitchell 41; Matthew Forde 2/20, Jason Holder 2/31) West Indies 168 all out in 19.5 overs (Romario Shepherd 49, Shamar Springer 39; Ish Sodhi 3/24, Jacob Duffy 3/36). Result: New Zealand won by 9 runs; lead series 2–1.
