In a gripping T20 World Cup 2024 encounter at Tarouba, the West Indies secured a vital 13-run victory over New Zealand, thanks to a stellar all-round performance from Sherfane Rutherford and a disciplined bowling display.
West Indies’ Wobbly Start
Winning the toss, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson opted to bowl first on what seemed to be a tricky pitch. This decision paid immediate dividends as the West Indies top order crumbled under pressure. Opener Brandon King (9) struggled for fluency, and the dangerous duo of Johnson Charles (0) and Nicholas Pooran (17) departed cheaply. With the scoreboard reading a precarious 30/5, the home side desperately needed a hero.
Rutherford to the Rescue
Enter Sherfane Rutherford. The powerful all-rounder took the attack to the New Zealand bowlers, launching a counterattack that would define the match. His unbeaten 68 off 39 deliveries, studded with two fours and six towering sixes, lifted the West Indies to a fighting total of 149/9. Rutherford’s partnerships with Akeal Hosein (15) and Andre Russell (14) proved crucial in reviving the innings.
New Zealand’s Chase Falters
Chasing 150, New Zealand began their innings with intent. Finn Allen (26) looked in fine touch, but the rest of the batting order failed to build meaningful partnerships. Devon Conway (5) and Kane Williamson (1) fell early, and despite a valiant effort from Glenn Phillips (40), the Kiwi chase stalled under the mounting pressure.
Joseph’s Four-Wicket Haul
West Indian pacer Alzarri Joseph ripped through the New Zealand middle order, claiming an impressive 4/19. His wickets, along with those of Gudakesh Motie (3/25) and Akeal Hosein (1/21), stifled New Zealand’s progress. Mitchell Santner’s late cameo (21 off 12) brought some cheer for the Kiwis, but it was too little, too late. New Zealand finished at 136/9, falling short by 13 runs.
West Indies Progress to Super Eight
This victory not only strengthened the West Indies’ position in Group C but also confirmed their passage to the Super Eight stage of the tournament. New Zealand, on the other hand, face an early exit after suffering their second consecutive defeat.
Key Takeaways
- Rutherford’s Brilliance: Sherfane Rutherford’s outstanding knock was the cornerstone of the West Indies’ innings. His ability to rescue the team from a dire situation showcased his immense value as an all-rounder.
- Joseph’s Bowling Masterclass: Alzarri Joseph’s pace and accuracy troubled the New Zealand batsmen throughout the chase. His four-wicket haul proved to be a match-winning contribution.
- New Zealand’s Batting Woes: The Black Caps struggled to string together partnerships and failed to capitalize on their strong start. The lack of substantial contributions from their middle order cost them dearly.
Detailed Scorecard:
Did not bat: Fall of wickets: 1-1 (J Charles, 0.6), 20-2 (Pooran, 3.5), 21-3 (Roston Chase, 4.3), 22-4 (Rovman Powell, 5.4), 30-5 (Brandon King, 6.3), 58-6 (Akeal Hosein, 10.6), 76-7 (Russell, 12.3), 103-8 (Romario Shepherd, 16.2), 112-9 (Alzarri Joseph, 17.5)
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Detailed Scorecard:
Did not bat: Fall of wickets: 20-1 (Devon Conway, 2.6), 34-2 (Finn Allen, 5.4), 39-3 (Kane Williamson, 6.4), 54-4 (Rachin Ravindra, 8.5), 63-5 (Daryl Mitchell, 10.6), 85-6 (James Neesham, 15.1), 108-7 (Glenn Phillips, 17.4), 108-8 (Tim Southee, 17.5), 117-9 (Trent Boult, 18.6)
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