Santner’s heroics not enough as West Indies claim narrow win over New Zealand

AUCKLAND: New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner produced a valiant effort with an unbeaten half-century, but it wasn’t enough to prevent a seven-run defeat to West Indies in the opening T20I of the series in Auckland.

Chasing 165, New Zealand’s innings faltered early as the top order collapsed, leaving the hosts reeling at 108/9. Santner, however, stood firm and launched a late counterattack, smashing a brilliant 55 off just 28 balls. He found support from Jacob Duffy, and together they added an unbeaten 50-run stand that brought the Kiwis agonisingly close.

Despite the late surge, West Indies held their nerve at the death, restricting New Zealand to 157/9 and securing a hard-fought victory.

Earlier, Windies skipper Shai Hope anchored the innings with a composed 53 off 39 balls, guiding his side to 164/6 on a tricky surface that offered inconsistent pace and bounce.

New Zealand will now look to regroup quickly as the series continues, while West Indies take early momentum with a confidence-boosting win away from home.