Tom Latham Leads New Zealand to First ODI Series Victory in West Indies. Stand-in captain Tom Latham top-scored with 69 as New Zealand defeated the West Indies by five wickets in the third and final one-day international series in Barbados on Sunday.
Kyle Mayers’ second one-day century and captain Nicholas Pooran’s 91 helped the hosts reach 301 for eight in 50 overs. But the Black Caps made light of an imposing target, scoring half-centuries in four of their first five overs. To reach 307 for five off 47.1 overs and cement their position as the top-ranked nation in the 50-over format.
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New Zealand’s 2-1 series victory in the Caribbean was their first ODI series victory in the Caribbean.
It came on the heels of their 2-1 Twenty20 series victory in Jamaica the previous week.
In the absence of injured regular captain Kane Williamson. Latham led the New Zealand effort and shared a 120-run fourth-wicket stand with Daryl Mitchell. Who made 63, which helped the touring side win.
“It’s nice to come here, where other teams have struggled in the past, and win the series.” Said match winner Latham.
“Today’s wicket was better, and we knew what we were aiming for. I’m just grateful to be able to contribute.”
Martin Guptill (57) and Devon Conway (56), both openers, played important roles in the chase.
Heavy dew on the outfield after dusk hampered the West Indies.
Requiring the ball to be changed four times during New Zealand’s innings and making life difficult for the home bowlers.
Mayers’ 105 off 110 balls with 12 fours and three sixes dominated the West Indies. Opening stand of 173 with Shai Hope, who made 51.
But it was Pooran’s explosive 55-ball contribution, which included nine sixes and four fours, that propelled the hosts past the 300-run mark.
“We blew our chance to win the series in the second game and paid the price here,” a dejected Pooran said.
“We have a special group of guys here, and I believe we will improve.”
Mitchell Santner of New Zealand, who was named player of the series, took two for 38 in a containing 10-over spell, while left-arm swing bowler Trent Boult took three for 53.
With two for 37 in seven overs, Jason Holder was the pick of the West Indies bowlers.
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