How Did Duffy Lead New Zealand to a 3-1 Series Victory Over West Indies?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jacob Duffy was instrumental in New Zealand's victory with his bowling figures.
- The series ended with a score of 3-1 in favor of New Zealand.
- The match showcased exciting moments with close finishes.
- New Zealand's batting lineup displayed resilience under pressure.
- The West Indies struggled to adapt to the challenging conditions.
Dunedin, Nov 13 (NationPress) Jacob Duffy's exceptional performance of 4-35 propelled New Zealand to an impressive eight-wicket victory in the fifth and final T20I against the West Indies, allowing the hosts to seal the five-match series 3-1 at the University Oval on Thursday.
The West Indies had chances to turn the tables but fell short in several close encounters. They narrowly won the first game by seven runs, and then New Zealand triumphed by three runs in the second and nine runs in the third, all three matches being decided in the final over. The fourth match in Nelson was ultimately abandoned due to rain.
Batting under challenging conditions with unpredictable bounce and movement, the West Indies were dismantled by Duffy, losing four wickets within the first ten balls of the powerplay. If not for Romario Shepherd and Roston Chase, they might have struggled to reach even 100 runs.
Duffy wreaked havoc in the third over, dismissing Shai Hope, Ackeem Auguste, and Sherfane Rutherford, leaving the visitors in a precarious position at 21-4 after three overs.
In this remarkable performance, Duffy reached a milestone of 50 T20I wickets in his 38th match. Only Trent Boult (36) and Lockie Ferguson (37) have achieved this feat faster.
Chase managed to form a 42-run partnership with Jason Holder for the sixth wicket. However, both were dismissed in quick succession, and Matthew Forde soon followed, leaving their score at 94 for 8 in the 14th over.
Shepherd then created a 43-run partnership for the ninth wicket alongside Shamar Springer before the West Indies were all out for 140 in 18.4 overs.
Chasing a modest target of 141, openers Tim Robinson (45) and Devon Conway (47) provided a rapid start, racing to 69 runs in just seven overs. This made the remainder of the chase straightforward as the hosts clinched victory with eight wickets in hand and 26 balls to spare.
Following Robinson's dismissal, Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman contributed quick 21-run innings, allowing the Kiwis to finish the series on a high note.