New Zealand stretched In the West By a narrow seven-run margin in the first ODI at Hagley Oval, thanks largely to an injury-hit century Daryl Mitchell. On a pitch that offered varying pace and lateral movement throughout the day, Mitchell’s 119 stood above all other efforts and ultimately shaped the outcome of a tense series opener.
Daryl Mitchell saves New Zealand after an early collapse
Sent into bat in cool and windy conditions in Christchurch, New Zealand sounded almost immediately. West Indies, against for a seam-heavy attack, batted twice with Matthew Ford Rachin Ravindra will be a cheap first ball before being trapped. At 2 in 2, the hosts were in early trouble.
Mitchell’s arrival changed the tone. Using decisive footwork to break the length of the Mariners, he found a way to grab the scoreboard mark despite an uneven bounce. His partnership Devon consway-Each man made 49 innings and took New Zealand into a recovery position at 91 for 91.
But the momentum faded again Roston chase she applied a shell through a disciplined skirt that glided smartly with the wind. Chase’s returns may only show one wicket, but his spell created a number of chances and created New Zealand’s progress for long periods. Michael bracewellfell twice, the 35-year-old made a vital 35 in the final tally.
Mitchell’s century lifts the hosts competitively under Duress
Mitchell, set on 79, Mitchell’s turning point of 42 was over, pulled out with a leg strain. Restricted in his run and forced to rely on pure wonder, he still managed to shift gears sharply. Picking straight boundaries with raw power, he passed through the hundred, exuding a rare emotional sensation as he landed.
Mitchell’s 119, a stretch with 12 fours and two sixes, made New Zealand’s final tally 299 to 269.
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West Indies struggle early, charging late is not enough
West Indies’ Chase never found an early rhythm. Keacy Carty‘s 20 runs off 67 balls reflected the visitors’ struggle to adapt to the seam movement and disciplined lines. Jacob Duffy and Zach Foulkes. The run rate left them at just 59 after 19 overs.
Shots survived only when Sherfane Rutherford He launched a spirited counter-attack to 55 from 61 deliveries. His stroke brought the contest to life and set the stage for a late surge Justin Greaves and wounded but brave Romario Shepherd. The pair closed borders in parcels capitalizing on New Zealand’s intensity in the landslide area.
The mountain built by the slow starter proved too steep. Needing 20 for 20 from the final, the West fell short despite their current late fireworks. Kyle Jamieson He closed the game with figures of 3 for 52 which sealed a tight victory for New Zealand.
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