New Zealand Clinches ODI Series Against West Indies with Thrilling One-Wicket Victory
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
New Zealand secured the five-match One-Day International (ODI) series against the West Indies after a dramatic one-wicket victory in the fourth match at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown.
The hard-fought win gave the visitors an unassailable 3-1 lead, with one match still remaining in the series.
Chapman Anchors the Chase
Middle-order batter Mark Chapman played a crucial innings, scoring 80 runs to steady New Zealand’s chase after an early collapse.
His partnership with Michael Bracewell, who contributed 32 runs, helped the visitors recover and move closer to the target.
Santner Guides New Zealand Home
Captain Mitchell Santner remained calm under pressure, finishing unbeaten on 34 runs to guide his team across the finish line.
With New Zealand needing only a few runs to win and one wicket remaining, Santner struck the winning boundary to complete a memorable victory with 35 balls to spare.
For his all-round leadership and match-winning contribution, Santner was named the Player of the Match.
West Indies Recover After Difficult Start
After being asked to bat first, the West Indies struggled early, losing several wickets before a valuable partnership rebuilt the innings.
Amir Jangoo scored 51 runs, while Gudakesh Motie added 41, helping the hosts post a total of 188 runs.
For New Zealand, Matthew Fisher impressed with the ball, claiming three wickets, while Santner and Bracewell also made important bowling contributions.
Motie Leads West Indies Fightback
West Indies spinner Gudakesh Motie delivered an outstanding bowling performance, taking 5 wickets for 47 runs and bringing his side close to victory.
Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph also maintained pressure during the closing stages, but New Zealand managed to hold their nerve in a tense finish.
Tribute Before the Match
Before play began, both teams paid tribute to Sir Garry Sobers, the legendary West Indies cricketer, who recently passed away.
Players wore black armbands, observed a minute of silence, and honored his remarkable contribution to the sport at Kensington Oval, a venue closely associated with his career.
Series Situation
With this victory, New Zealand leads the five-match ODI series 3-1, making the final match a dead rubber in terms of the series result.
The fifth and final ODI will also be played at Kensington Oval, where both teams will look to finish the series on a positive note.
Match Summary
- West Indies: 188 all out (44.4 overs)
- New Zealand: 189/9 (44.1 overs)
Result: New Zealand won by 1 wicket
Player of the Match: Mitchell Santner
Series: New Zealand leads the five-match ODI series 3-1
