Kyle Jamieson delivered an impressive final over performance, leading New Zealand to a narrow nine-run victory over the West Indies in the third T20I at Saxton Oval on Sunday. This win gives New Zealand a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, having previously won the second match while the West Indies took the first.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, New Zealand set a challenging total of 177-9. Devon Conway was the standout performer, scoring a half-century with 56 runs, while Daryl Mitchell contributed a solid 41. However, the hosts faced a late collapse, losing six wickets for just 31 runs in the last five overs. Matthew Forde and Jason Holder were the standout bowlers for the West Indies, each taking two wickets for 20 and 31 runs, respectively.
New Zealand seemed poised for a comfortable win as the West Indies stumbled to 88-8 by the 13th over. Despite this difficult position, the West Indies fought back with Romario Shepherd scoring 49 runs from 34 balls and Shamar Springer adding 39 runs. With one wicket remaining and 12 runs needed in the final over, the West Indies looked to be in with a chance as Shepherd and Akeal Hosein took to the crease.
However, Jamieson (1-35) remained composed and restricted the runs, conceding only two runs from his first four balls. He then secured the win for New Zealand by having Shepherd caught at long-off on the penultimate ball of the match, ending the West Indies’ innings at 168 all out.
The West Indies’ batting order continued to struggle, with their top order failing, leaving them at 47-2 at the end of the powerplay. They ultimately lost six wickets for just 35 runs during a shaky middle period.
With the fourth T20I scheduled for Monday, November 10, the West Indies will be eager to bounce back and level the series, setting the stage for a thrilling decider. The resilience shown by both teams promises an exciting showdown ahead.