New Zealand return with victory over Windies

The first international cricket to be played in New Zealand for almost nine months also took place on Friday as the Black Caps beat West Indies by five wickets in a rain-affected first Twenty20.

With the match in Auckland reduced to 16 overs per side, West Indies posted 180-7 after captain Kieron Pollard hit 75 not out off 37 balls, including eight sixes, while New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson claimed 5-21.

The hosts’ target was revised to 176 off 16 overs and, with regular captain Kane Williamson sitting out this series, the Kiwi top order slipped to 63-4.

But an unbeaten 48 off 24 balls from Jimmy Neesham and 31 not out off 18 balls from Mitchell Santner saw New Zealand reach 179-5 with four balls to spare and claim victory on the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method.

New Zealand takes a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20 series, which is followed by two Tests.

BBC Sports

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