New Zealand successfully leveled the three-match ODI series against the West Indies after a dominant bowling display in the second match in Guyana. The visitors secured a five-wicket victory by chasing down the target of 139 in 32.4 overs, anchored by Tom Latham’s unbeaten 37.
The foundation for the win was laid by Jayden Lennox, who claimed a career-best maiden five-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 5 for 19. Together with Mitchell Santner, who took 2 for 21, and Michael Bracewell, who claimed 2 wickets, the New Zealand spinners proved lethal as they accounted for nine of the ten West Indian wickets. The hosts were bundled out for just 138 in 36 overs.
West Indies had initially started well, with openers John Campbell and Ackeem Auguste putting together a 63-run partnership. However, the momentum shifted once the ball aged and the spinners entered the attack. Auguste was the first to fall, edging a delivery from Bracewell to point, while Campbell was bowled by an arm ball from Santner for 43. Lennox then dismantled the middle order, removing Shai Hope and Sherfane Rutherford in quick succession. Santner further dented the innings by bowling Keacy Carty, leaving West Indies at 108 for 5.
New Zealand’s spinners maintained pressure by consistently targeting the stumps, resulting in six batters being bowled and two dismissed LBW. Following the collapse, Gudakesh Motie was bowled by Lennox, and Matthew Forde was also bowled while attempting a sweep. Amir Jangoo provided some resistance with 24 runs before being trapped LBW by Bracewell. The innings concluded with Alzarri Joseph run out and Vitel Lawes dismissed LBW by Lennox.
During the chase, Will Young provided a steady start for New Zealand, scoring 28 off 31 balls with five fours. After Young was trapped in front by Joseph and Mark Chapman was run out for a duck, Henry Nicholls added two fours before being dismissed by Motie. With the score at 52 for 3, Tom Latham and Daryl Mitchell stabilized the innings with a 42-run partnership. Although Khary Pierre eventually removed Mitchell and Dean Foxcroft, Latham and Bracewell guided New Zealand to the target without further loss.
