Daryl Mitchell showcased his batting prowess with a remarkable 119 runs off 118 balls, helping New Zealand to a total of 269-7 in their first one-day international against the West Indies at Hagley Oval on Sunday. Despite a challenging pitch that demanded patience and precision, Mitchell’s innings provided the backbone needed for New Zealand’s performance.
From the outset, New Zealand’s innings displayed a struggle to find momentum, hampered by the West Indies’ disciplined bowling and a sluggish over rate. While Mitchell flourished, other batsmen were less successful in the face of a demanding bowling attack. Devon Conway contributed a steady 49 runs off 58 balls, while Michael Bracewell added a vital 35 runs. The two formed beneficial partnerships, with Mitchell combining for 67 runs with Conway for the third wicket and 69 with Bracewell for the fifth.
The West Indies captain, Shai Hope, was instrumental behind the stumps, taking catches that saw the early dismissals of Rachin Ravindra and Will Young. Young’s departure for a golden duck in his 50th one-day international was particularly notable. At 24 for two, Mitchell entered the fray and went on to anchor the innings, overcoming a groin injury that interrupted his performance in the 41st over.
Mitchell’s century came at a measured pace, reflecting the challenges of the innings; he completed his half-century off 61 balls and reached his hundred from 107 deliveries. His innings was punctuated by 12 fours and two sixes, as he maintained focus in a match that saw the first ten overs conclude at a low score of 39-2.
The struggle for scoring was evident throughout the match, with New Zealand reaching 94-3 after 20 overs and 185-4 after 40. Bracewell supported Mitchell well, and although he faced some luck—overturning an lbw decision and narrowly avoiding being stumped—he played a critical role in stabilizing the innings until the end.
Zak Foulkes contributed a quickfire 22 runs off 16 balls towards the end of the innings, further bolstering the total with a partnership of 43 runs for the seventh wicket alongside Mitchell. With this performance, New Zealand will hope to build on their total as they strive for victory against the visiting West Indies.