A disciplined bowling display powered West Indies to a stunning seven-run win over New Zealand in the first T20 at Eden Park on Wednesday, despite Mitchell Santner’s explosive 55 off 28 balls.
Batting first after being put in, the visitors posted 164-6, anchored by captain Shai Hope’s 50 and Rovman Powell’s quick 33. Jayden Seales (3-32) and Matthew Forde (1-9 in three overs) then led a sharp bowling effort that derailed New Zealand’s chase.
Santner’s late fireworks kept the hosts alive, but the West Indies held firm to seal victory. The second T20 is scheduled for Thursday at the same venue.