In a pulsating encounter at Southampton on June 13, 2026, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup witnessed a masterclass in batting resilience. The Group 2 clash between West Indies and New Zealand lived up to the pre-match billing, culminating in a dramatic victory for the Caribbean side. Chasing a stiff target of 163, West Indies secured a thrilling 7-wicket win with only one ball to spare, headlined by a magnificent, unbeaten 90 from wicketkeeper-batter Shemaine Campbelle.
Disciplined West Indies bowling line-up restrict New Zealand to a formidable score
Asked to bat first, New Zealand’s innings was characterized by brisk starts and consistent pressure applied by the West Indies bowlers. Isabella Gaze provided the early momentum, smashing 35 off 29 balls, including three fours and a six, to help the White Ferns reach 49/1 by the end of the powerplay. However, the momentum shifted when Aaliyah Alleyne began her decisive spell. Alleyne showcased exceptional control to finish with brilliant figures of 4/27 from her four overs, systematically dismantling the top order.
New Zealand’s middle order stabilized through Brooke Halliday’s measured 44-run contribution and a late flurry from Maddy Green, who remained unbeaten on 35 off 22 balls. Despite losing wickets at critical junctures, including captain Melie Kerr for just 5, the White Ferns managed to post a challenging total of 162/6. The West Indies attack, while tested by New Zealand’s aggressive stroke play, maintained a respectable economy rate, ensuring the target remained within reach on a competitive Southampton pitch.
Shemaine Campbelle powers West Indies to a dramatic victory against New Zealand
The West Indies chase began shakily with the early loss of Qiana Joseph, but the partnership between captain Hayley Matthews and Campbelle provided the necessary stability. Matthews played a crucial anchoring role, scoring a fluent 48 off 37 balls. Once Matthews fell to Jess Kerr, the burden of the chase rested squarely on Campbelle.
Campbelle thrived under the pressure, executing a flawless innings that combined watchful defense with aggressive hitting. Scoring an unbeaten 90 off just 62 deliveries, she found the fence eight times and cleared it three times. Her ability to rotate the strike while finding boundaries kept the required run rate manageable as the game reached a crescendo.
With 31 runs required off the final three overs, the match reached its boiling point. Deandra Dottin (6) provided brief support before falling, but Campbelle remained composed. Facing an intense final over, she kept her nerve to guide her side home with just one ball remaining. The triumph marks a significant statement for the West Indies in the group stages, fuelled by an individual performance that will be remembered as one of the finest in this year’s tournament.
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
