NELSON, New Zealand — Rain played the ultimate spoilsport on Monday as the fourth T20 International between New Zealand and the West Indies was abandoned after fewer than seven overs of play at Saxton Oval.
The interruption leaves New Zealand leading the five-match series 2-1, with the decisive fifth match scheduled in Dunedin on Thursday.
West Indies make a brief start
Batting first, the Windies managed 38-1 off 6.3 overs before a second rain interruption forced the match’s premature conclusion.
Alick Athanaze, who contributed 21 runs, was the only wicket to fall when he misjudged a James Neesham delivery, attempting to loft it over mid-on. The ball was safely pouched by Daryl Mitchell, who sprinted back to complete the catch.
Fellow opener Amir Jangoo remained unbeaten on 12, while captain Shai Hope was not out on three, leaving the innings incomplete when the weather intervened.
Series recap: Narrow margins across the board
The T20I series has been fiercely competitive, with close results highlighting the fine margins between the teams:
· Match 1 (Auckland, Eden Park): West Indies won by 7 runs
· Match 2 (Auckland, Eden Park): New Zealand responded with a 3-run victory
· Match 3 (Nelson): Black Caps secured a 9-run win
Monday’s washout extends the suspense to Thursday’s final match in Dunedin, which now carries the potential for a series-deciding showdown.
