West Indies scored 149/9 in 20 overs, where as New Zealand scored 136/9 in 20 overs.
So, finally West Indies beat New Zealand by 13 runs.
West Indies secures their spot in the Super 8 stages of the 2024 T20 World Cup with a decisive win against New Zealand in front of a packed crowd in Trinidad.
Despite a shaky start, West Indies rallied behind a standout performance from Sherfane Rutherford, who powered them to a competitive total of 149 runs.
In response, New Zealand faltered, falling short by 13 runs.
Where was the game won?
The crucial turning point came in the death overs of West Indies’ batting innings.
Facing a stagnant situation, Rutherford’s explosive batting completely rattled New Zealand.
With a flurry of sixes, Rutherford single-handedly changed the course of the game, showcasing his prowess with an unbeaten 68 runs, which proved to be the decisive factor in the match.
Apart from Glenn Phillips, no other batsman managed to match Rutherford’s impact.
West Indies
Powerplay: A rocky start
During the initial phase, West Indies struggled, losing wickets early on.
Despite efforts from Nicholas Pooran, Tim Southee and Trent Boult kept the pressure on, dismissing key players like Rovman Powell and Roston Chase.
Middle overs: A fight to stabilize
In the middle overs, James Neesham further troubled West Indies, leaving them struggling at 30/5.
Although Andre Russell attempted to revive the innings, Boult’s return stifled their momentum.
However, Rutherford’s aggressive batting injected life into their innings, setting the stage for a competitive total.
Death overs: Rutherford’s heroics
In a remarkable turnaround, Rutherford dominated the death overs, orchestrating a remarkable recovery.
Despite the pressure, he unleashed a flurry of boundaries, guiding West Indies to a challenging total of 150 runs with his explosive batting display.
New Zealand
Powerplay: A sluggish start
While New Zealand began steadier than West Indies, they failed to capitalize on the early momentum.
Finn Allen showed promise but Devon Conway’s dismissal hindered their progress.
Alzarri Joseph’s late entry into the attack further dented their hopes.
Middle overs: Collapse under pressure
Gudakesh Motie’s impactful spell dismantled New Zealand’s middle order, leaving them reeling at 63/5.
With wickets falling rapidly, their hopes of a successful chase dwindled.
Death overs: Falling short
Despite Glenn Phillips’ efforts, New Zealand couldn’t match the required run rate.
Alzarri Joseph’s lethal bowling, including crucial wickets in consecutive deliveries, sealed their fate.
Despite a brief surge from Mitchell Santner, Romario Shepherd’s tight bowling ensured West Indies’ victory.
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