New Zealand vs West Indies Live Score, 1st T20I (New Zealand National Cricket Team vs West Indies National Cricket Team): A thrilling five-match T20I series is set to unfold in Auckland as Mitchell Santner’s New Zealand take on Shai Hope’s in-form West Indies. The hosts will be eager to bounce back after recent defeats against England and Australia, while the visitors arrive full of confidence following a dominant 3-0 whitewash over Bangladesh.
New Zealand will be without star batter Kane Williamson, who recently retired from T20 internationals, but will be boosted by the return of leg-spinner Ish Sodhi, who missed the England series. For the West Indies, the comeback of Matthew Forde from a shoulder injury strengthens their bowling unit, while all-rounder Shamar Springer adds valuable depth in the absence of Ramon Simmons and Jediah Blades.
Both teams have plenty of match-winners and are evenly balanced on paper. However, the West Indies’ recent T20 form and aggressive approach could give them a slight edge. Still, New Zealand’s familiarity with home conditions and tactical depth make them formidable opponents. With contrasting styles and strong line-ups, the stage is perfectly set for a closely fought, high-energy contest between two proud cricketing nations.
NZ vs WI – Playing XIs
New Zealand: Tim Robinson, Devon Conway(w), Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner(c), Zakary Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Jacob Duffy
West Indies: Shai Hope(w/c), Alick Athanaze, Brandon King, Roston Chase, Ackeem Auguste, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Forde, Akeal Hosein, Jayden Seales