Hetmyers Heroics Earn Consolation Win for West Indies as New Zealand Clinch Series 3-2

Shimron Hetmyer held his nerve in a thrilling finish to guide the West Indies to a dramatic two-wicket victory. Chasing New Zealand’s target of 269, the Caribbean side reached the total with 15 balls to spare. Despite the defeat, the touring Black Caps secured the five-match ODI series 3-2.

After winning the toss at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, West Indies captain Shai Hope opted to field first.

Batting first, New Zealand posted a competitive 268 for 9 in their 50 overs. Opener Will Young provided a solid start with 56 off 63 balls, while No. 3 batter Nick Kelly scored 64 from 80 deliveries. Captain Tom Latham anchored the innings with a composed 69 off 71 balls, helping his side set a challenging target.

For the West Indies, Alzarri Joseph was the standout bowler, claiming 2 wickets for 38 runs from his 10 overs. Whitel Lodge picked up 2 wickets while conceding 63 runs, while Matthew Forde, Jayden Seales, and Gudakesh Motie took one wicket each.

In reply, West Indies got off to a flying start through Akeem Auguste, who smashed 34 off 24 balls, and Justin Greaves, who contributed 22 from just 15 deliveries. However, they lost a few quick wickets after reaching the 50-run mark. Captain Shai Hope (39) and Keacy Carty (20) steadied the innings with a 59-run partnership for the third wicket.

The game then turned in West Indies’ favour thanks to a brilliant 95-run fifth-wicket stand between Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford. Rutherford struck 61 off 58 balls, including two fours and five sixes, before being dismissed, bringing New Zealand back into the contest. In the 45th over, Jacob Duffy removed Matthew Forde and Alzarri Joseph off consecutive deliveries, reducing West Indies to 248 for 8 and setting up a tense finish.

Hetmyer, however, remained calm under pressure, producing an unbeaten match-winning knock of 69 from 64 balls, featuring two fours and four towering sixes. Alongside Jayden Seales (5*), he guided the hosts to victory in 47.3 overs.