New Zealand’s campaign at the T20I World Cup 2024 seems to be over after they suffered their second successive defeat in the tournament on Thursday. New Zealand were put down by West Indies, who registered their 13-run win in Trinidad and Tobago. With the victory, West Indies have qualified for the second stage of the tournament.
Sherfane Rutherford’s astonishing innings pulled West Indies out of huge predicament after they were put under massive pressure by New Zealand bowlers who controlled the proceedings in the powerplay, skittling West Indies for 112/9 in 18 overs, but a crucial innings from Sherfane Rutherford, who attacked New Zealand bowlers to the tune of 68* off 39, fired the side to a competitive score of 149/9 in 20 overs.
New Zealand, in their chase, fell short by 13 runs, with West Indies bowlers Alzarri Joseph and Gudakesh Moties standing out to suffocate New Zealand with the astounding figures of 4/20 and 3/25 respectively. New Zealand found it difficult to break free from the constraints imposed by the West Indies' bowlers as they kept on losing wickets at regular intervals.
For New Zealand, Glenn Phillips was the top-scorer with his 33 off 40, while Mitchell Santner and Finn Allen hit 26 and 21 respectively. West Indies bowlers, meanwhile executed a clinical performance to restrict New Zealand to just 136 runs, ensuring a comprehensive 13-run victory. This was West Indies' third victory in a row.