A brilliant unbeaten century from West Indies captain Shai Hope was not enough to prevent a series-clinching victory for New Zealand, who triumphed by five wickets with three balls to spare in a rain-affected second ODI at McLean Park, Napier, on November 19.
The result hands the Black Caps an unassailable 2–0 lead in the three-match series, which concludes on November 21.
Hope Rescues Stuttering Windies Innings
In a contest reduced to 34 overs per side, the West Indies struggled to build meaningful partnerships, losing wickets at regular intervals. Hope, however, stood firm, producing a magnificent 109 not out off 69 balls, his 19th ODI century, decorated with 13 fours and four sixes.
Only Akeem Auguste, Justin Greaves, and Romario Shepherd—each scoring 22—and Matthew Forde with 21, offered support as the Caribbean side posted 247/9.
New Zealand seamer Nathan Smith led the bowling with 4/42, while Kyle Jamieson added 3/44.
Conway Leads New Zealand’s Chase
Set a revised target of 235, the hosts began strongly with a commanding 106-run opening stand between Devon Conway (90) and Rachin Ravindra (56). The West Indies briefly fought back, reducing New Zealand to 166/4 and later 194/5.
However, captain Mitchell Santner (34* off 15) and Tom Latham (39*), kept their composure under pressure, accelerating aggressively in the closing overs to guide New Zealand to 248/5 in 33.3 overs.
Windies bowling honours were shared among Greaves, Forde, Roston Chase, Jayden Seales and Shamar Springer, each claiming one wicket.
Summarised Scores
West Indies 247/9 (34 overs)
Shai Hope 109*, Akeem Auguste 22, Justin Greaves 22, Romario Shepherd 22, Matthew Forde 21
Nathan Smith 4/42, Kyle Jamieson 3/44
New Zealand 248/5 (33.3 overs)
Devon Conway 90, Rachin Ravindra 56, Tom Latham 39*, Mitchell Santner 34*
New Zealand won by 5 wickets and lead the series 2–0.