Chasing a modest target of 56, New Zealand wrapped up the match inside 10 overs, reaching 57-1 with ease to underline their dominance at the Basin Reserve.

Duffy Delivers Again Under Pressure

Duffy finished with figures of 5-38, his second five-wicket haul of the series, as West Indies struggled to cope with sustained pressure from a depleted New Zealand bowling attack. Despite fielding a weakened pace unit, the hosts restricted the tourists to a slender overall lead of just 55 runs after New Zealand had trailed by 73 in the first innings.

The fast bowler shouldered a heavy workload once again, sending down 17.2 overs in the second innings after bowling extensively earlier in the match. His consistency proved decisive as wickets fell steadily through the morning session.

Clinical Chase Seals the Result

New Zealand wasted little time finishing the job. Devon Conway remained unbeaten on 28, while Kane Williamson made 16 not out, striking a boundary off Anderson Phillip to clinch victory shortly before the tea interval. Captain Tom Latham was the only casualty, departing for nine.

Debutants Shine in Injury-Hit Side

The win was made more impressive by the performances of debutants Michael Rae and Mitch Hay. Hay top-scored in the match with a fluent 61 in New Zealand’s first innings total of 278, while Rae impressed with the ball, claiming match figures of 6-106.

New Zealand’s bowling resources were stretched thin following injuries to Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, and Nathan Smith, alongside the absence of Kyle Jamieson and Ben Sears. Matters worsened when Blair Tickner dislocated his shoulder after taking 4-32 in the first innings.

West Indies Falter After Bright Start

After being sent in on a lively surface, the West Indies were bowled out for 205 in their first innings, with Shai Hope making 47 and John Campbell contributing 44. Despite the pitch offering pace and bounce throughout, the visitors failed to capitalise.

Their second innings never gained momentum. Resuming at 32-2, the collapse accelerated after Brandon King was run out for 22, triggering a slide to 98-6 by lunch. Duffy’s successful review to remove Justin Greaves proved a turning point.

Captains Reflect as Series Moves On

“I thought the way the guys bowled today was outstanding,” Duffy said after the match. “Given everything we’ve dealt with, it was a complete team effort.”

West Indies skipper Roston Chase admitted batting remains a concern. “We didn’t make the most of the conditions. We got starts, but no one went on to build an innings, especially in the second innings,” he said.