New Zealand edged West Indies by five wickets in a thrilling rain-reduced ODI at McLean Park, Napier, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Devon Conway’s 90 and a composed 34* from Mitchell Santner, alongside 39* from Tom Latham, anchored the chase and sealed the victory with three balls to spare.
Chasing 248 in 34 overs, New Zealand were 194 for 5 with the equation requiring 54 runs from 29 balls. Santner’s late assault, including crucial boundaries off Matthew Forde and Shamar Springer, turned the game in New Zealand’s favour, showcasing his knack for clutch performances.
West Indies captain Shai Hope was the standout for the visitors, smashing an unbeaten 109 off 69 balls to lift his team from 130 for 6. Despite Hope’s valiant effort, two quick wickets and tight bowling from Kyle Jamieson, Smith, and Santner halted the momentum and enabled New Zealand to complete the chase.
The innings featured a strong opening partnership of 106 runs between Conway and Rachin Ravindra (56), New Zealand’s first century opening stand in ODIs since February 2020. The duo laid the foundation before Conway’s dismissal at 90, after which Latham and Santner calmly guided the hosts home.
The match, delayed by nearly three hours due to rain, highlighted New Zealand’s depth and resilience, with key contributions across the order. The hosts now look set to complete a clean sweep in the series, maintaining their dominant home record in bilateral ODI contests.
