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In a heart-stopping clash at Bay Oval, New Zealand clawed their way to victory against the West Indies, leveling the T20I series 1-1 thanks to a masterclass from Mark Chapman. Chasing 177, the Black Caps overcame a top-order collapse as Chapman’s unbeaten 65 (42 balls) anchored a nail-biting finish.
West Indies Set Challenging Target
After electing to bat, the West Indies rode on Brandon King (35) and Johnson Charles (24) for a strong start. Captain Rovman Powell’s fiery 50 (28 balls) turbocharged their innings, pushing the total to 176/7. Tim Southee (2/28) and Lockie Ferguson (2/33) struck key blows, but late fireworks from Powell left New Zealand with a tough chase.
New Zealand’s Top-Order Collapse
The hosts stumbled early, losing Finn Allen (2) and Tim Seifert (3) inside three overs. Glenn Phillips (17) and Daryl Mitchell (9) fell soon after, leaving New Zealand in deep trouble at 47/4. With spinners Gudakesh Motie and Akeal Hosein tightening the screws, the Kiwis needed a miracle.
Chapman-Neesham Rescue Act
Enter Mark Chapman. Teaming up with Jimmy Neesham (23 off 12), the left-hander shifted gears, hammering spinners and pacers alike. His 65 included 5 fours and 3 sixes, but the game turned in the 18th over when he smashed Romario Shepherd for 16 runs. With Mitchell Santner (8) as support, Chapman sealed the win with a boundary off Alzarri Joseph.
Missed Opportunities Haunt West Indies
Despite Powell’s explosive batting, the West Indies rued dropped chances—particularly Chapman’s early reprieve. Powell admitted, “We had them under pressure, but Chapman was brilliant. Fielding let us down.” Pacer Joseph (1/24) and Motie (1/23) impressed, but death-over lapses proved costly.
Decider Looms in Auckland
With the series now 1-1, the final T20I at Eden Park promises fireworks. New Zealand will rely on Chapman’s red-hot form, while the West Indies aim to unleash their power hitters.
Key Takeaways:
– Chapman’s 65* steals the show after NZ’s 47/4 collapse.
– Powell’s 50 and West Indies’ bowling fightback fall just short.
– Series heads to Auckland for a winner-takes-all finale.
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