UPDATE: The West Indies stunned hosts New Zealand with a thrilling 7-run victory in the opening match of their five-match Twenty20 series at Eden Park on July 15, 2025. Captain Shai Hope led the charge for the visitors, scoring 53 runs off 39 balls, helping his team to a total of 164 runs after losing the toss and batting first.
The match turned into a nail-biter as New Zealand, who were cruising at 2-70 in the 10th over, collapsed spectacularly, losing 7 wickets for just 37 runs to slump to 9-107 in the 17th over. However, New Zealand’s captain Mitch Santner ignited hopes with a powerful display, smashing 55 runs off 28 balls before falling short in the final over.
In a gripping finale, New Zealand needed 20 runs off the last over. Santner managed to hit a six from the third ball bowled by Romario Shepherd but could not maintain the momentum, ending the innings with a boundary that left his team just short. “I think the way the West Indies bowled in the middle there really put pressure on us,” Santner stated post-match.
The West Indies, fresh off their series in Bangladesh, faced a challenging pitch at Eden Park, which was originally prepared for a rained-out match against England. The pitch proved to be two-paced and unpredictable, making scoring difficult for both teams.
The West Indies lost Brandon King for just 3 runs on the last ball of the first over, and after a shaky start, Alick Athanaze (16) and Roston Chase (28) contributed to a steady recovery. The team added an impressive 53 runs in the last five overs, setting a competitive target.
For New Zealand, the power play began promisingly, but they quickly became bogged down. Boundaries were scarce as they struggled against the West Indies’ disciplined bowling attack, with Chase claiming 3 wickets for 26 runs and Jayden Seales taking 3 for 32.
As the teams prepare for the second match of the series tomorrow at the same venue, all eyes will be on whether New Zealand can bounce back from this unexpected defeat. Fans are eager to see if the West Indies can maintain their momentum and secure another victory in what promises to be an electrifying series.
