Daryl Mitchell, battling through clear physical discomfort, produced a determined century that ultimately separated the sides as New Zealand edged the West Indies by seven runs in a tense first ODI in Christchurch on Sunday.
His composed yet authoritative 119 anchored New Zealand’s total of 269-7 on a difficult, two-paced surface, setting up a dramatic finish.
Late West Indies Fightback Falls Agonisingly Short
The West Indies launched a spirited late surge, closing at 262-6, thanks to Sherfane Rutherford’s controlled 55 and a blistering unbeaten 38 off 24 balls from Justin Greaves. Their power-hitting swung momentum sharply, and when Romario Shepherd smashed a six in the final over, the visitors needed just nine from two balls.
But seamer Jacob Duffy held firm under pressure, closing out the match to secure New Zealand a 1-0 lead ahead of Wednesday’s second ODI in Napier.
Mitchell Masterclass on a Tricky Pitch
On a surface offering inconsistent bounce, Mitchell’s seventh ODI hundred was a standout display of temperament and shot selection. New Zealand slipped to 24-2 after Matthew Forde removed Rachin Ravindra and Will Young in successive deliveries, bringing Mitchell to the crease far earlier than planned.
Devon Conway contributed a steady 49, but most struggled for fluency. Mitchell, favouring leg-side scoring, struck 12 fours and two sixes, including a powerful pull off Jayden Seales to reach three figures in the 46th over. Seales later removed him during an excellent spell of 3-41.
Mitchell did not field due to a groin concern.
Hope: “Batters Need to Step Up”
The West Indies’ chase lacked early momentum despite a 60-run stand between Alick Athanaze (29) and Keacy Carty (32), which consumed 18 overs. Captain Shai Hope added a brisk 37 but acknowledged the team needed greater top-order responsibility.
“If I’m being critical, the batters need to step up more — myself included. I got out at a crucial time,” Hope said. “A few of us need to go a bit bigger.”
Jamieson Strikes, Duffy Holds Nerve
Kyle Jamieson led New Zealand’s attack with 3-52, delivering timely breakthroughs that kept the visitors behind the required rate until their late assault. But it was Duffy’s composed final over that ultimately preserved the victory.
With both teams showing flashes of brilliance — and vulnerabilities — the stage is set for a high-stakes second ODI that promises another gripping contest.