West Indies achieved their first regulation-time victory in New Zealand with a thrilling seven-run win in the opening T20I at Eden Park, Auckland on November 5, 2025. After posting 164/6, the Caribbean side successfully defended the lowest total ever protected at Eden Park in T20I cricket, despite a late surge from New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner.
Shai Hope starred with the bat, scoring 53 off 39 balls, while Mitchell Santner’s unbeaten 55 from 28 balls nearly powered New Zealand to an incredible victory. The match went down to the final delivery, with West Indies holding their nerve to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
Sources: ESPNcricinfo, Outlook India
Match Scorecard
| Team | Score | Overs | Wickets | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Indies | 164 | 20.0 | 6 | Won by 7 runs |
| New Zealand | 157 | 20.0 | 9 | Lost |
Sources: ESPNcricinfo Match Report
Top Performers
| Player | Team | Role | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shai Hope | West Indies | Batsman | 53 runs off 39 balls |
| Mitchell Santner | New Zealand | All-rounder | 55* off 28 balls |
| Roston Chase | West Indies | Bowler | 3 wickets for 26 runs |
| Jayden Seales | West Indies | Bowler | 3 wickets for 32 runs |
| Rovman Powell | West Indies | Batsman | 33 runs off 23 balls |
| Jacob Duffy | New Zealand | Bowler | 2 wickets for 19 runs |
Sources: ESPNcricinfo Full Scorecard
Key Moments
- Matthew Forde’s menacing return from shoulder injury helped West Indies tear through New Zealand’s batting order
- Brandon King dismissed for just 4 runs in the first over, setting West Indies back early
- Shai Hope and Rovman Powell built crucial partnerships in the middle overs
- New Zealand lost quick wickets, slumping to 88/6 in the 13th over
- Mitchell Santner launched a remarkable counter-attack, smashing 55 not out to bring New Zealand within touching distance
- Romario Shepherd held his nerve in the final over to secure victory for the visitors
- West Indies successfully defended the lowest total ever at Eden Park in T20I format
Match Analysis
West Indies appeared set for a tough start after being restricted in good batting conditions just a week after their clean sweep in Bangladesh. However, their bowlers delivered when it mattered most. Jayden Seales and Roston Chase each took three wickets, dismantling New Zealand’s top order.
The home side’s chase never gained momentum as wickets fell regularly. It was a disappointing start for New Zealand in their first match since Kane Williamson’s retirement from T20I cricket. Despite Santner’s heroic efforts with the bat, New Zealand couldn’t cross the finish line.
The match showcased the competitive spirit of both teams heading into a crucial T20 World Cup preparation period. West Indies demonstrated their ability to defend modest totals through disciplined bowling, while New Zealand will rue their batting collapse that left too much for their captain to do alone.
What’s Next
The five-match T20I series continues with the second match scheduled at the same venue, Eden Park in Auckland. New Zealand will look to bounce back and level the series, while West Indies aim to build on this momentum. Both teams will analyze their performances as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
The series provides crucial match practice for both sides, with New Zealand adjusting to life after Williamson’s T20I retirement and West Indies seeking to prove their consistency after their recent success in Bangladesh.
Match Details:
- Venue: Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand
- Date: November 5, 2025
- Toss: New Zealand elected to bowl first
- Result: West Indies won by 7 runs
- Player of the Match: [To be confirmed]
Sources: ESPNcricinfo , Outlook India