Match Details

On 9 November at Saxton Oval in Nelson, New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first in the third T20I of the five-match series against the West Indies. The home side aimed to build momentum ahead of the next game, and the conditions looked good for batting. Following the win, the fourth match scheduled for 10 November was abandoned due to rain, meaning New Zealand now leads the series 2-1.

New Zealand Innings

New Zealand got off to a bright start. Openers laid a solid foundation, and then the middle order played with better clarity. Devon Conway stood out with a composed 56 off 34 balls, while Daryl Mitchell added 41.

From that platform, New Zealand ended up posting 177 for 9 in 20 overs. Their total was competitive on the surface, which offered help late in the evening.

West Indies Innings

The West Indies chase looked promising at first, but fell away as the game progressed. They lost regular wickets and couldn’t fully build momentum. At one stage, the cupboard looked bare, and no batter could convert their start into a game-changing knock. Eventually, the visitors were dismissed for 168 in 19.5 overs, falling short by 9 runs.

Series Snapshot

With that win, New Zealand takes a 2-1 lead in the series. The fourth T20I, scheduled for 10 November, ended in a washout due to persistent rain, which gives New Zealand a crucial edge heading into the final match.

What It Means

New Zealand’s win was built on partnerships at the top and maintaining pressure with the ball. The West Indies, despite flashes of intent, couldn’t hold on when it mattered. Now the hosts hold the series advantage, and the rain-hit fourth match only strengthens their position.

The fifth and final T20I will decide the series, with New Zealand needing just one more win or even a no-result to wrap it up. The West Indies must regroup quickly.