New Zealand Seal ODI Series with Thrilling One-Wicket Win Over West Indies

In a gripping contest filled with drama, batting collapses, and nerve-wracking moments, New Zealand edged past West Indies by just one wicket to take an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match ODI series. Chasing a modest target at Kensington Oval, the Black Caps held their nerve to reach victory with one wicket in hand in the final over.

After being sent in to bat, West Indies struggled from the outset against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack. Kiwi pacer Matthew Fisher, supported by the spinners, kept the hosts under constant pressure as wickets fell at regular intervals.

Following the failure of the top order, Amir Jangoo and Gudakesh Motie steadied the innings. Jangoo anchored the batting with a patient 51, while Motie’s quickfire 41 lower down the order helped West Indies post a competitive total of 188 before being bowled out. Matthew Fisher claimed three wickets for New Zealand, while Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell picked up two wickets apiece.

Chasing 189, New Zealand suffered an early setback, losing three wickets for just 35 runs as the West Indies pacers struck with the new ball. However, Mark Chapman turned the match around with a superb innings. Batting at number four, he smashed 80 off 82 balls, including eight fours and four sixes, putting the visitors firmly in control of the chase.

After Chapman’s dismissal, the momentum swung dramatically in West Indies’ favour as Gudakesh Motie sparked a remarkable comeback. The left-arm spinner produced an outstanding spell, claiming five wickets for 47 runs and triggering a dramatic collapse that left New Zealand in deep trouble.

Captain Mitchell Santner then played a crucial knock of 34 from 56 balls to keep the chase alive. But as wickets continued to tumble, the match headed for a tense finish with New Zealand losing their ninth wicket.

The final-wicket pair of Matthew Fisher and Jayden Lennox showed tremendous composure, surviving the relentless pressure from the West Indies bowlers. They eventually guided New Zealand to the target in 44.1 overs, sealing a memorable one-wicket victory and with it the ODI series.

Mitchell Santner was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance, taking two wickets and contributing a vital 34 runs with the bat to help New Zealand secure the series-clinching win.