West Indies Triumph Over New Zealand in Women's T20 World Cup Opener

In a thrilling opener of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, the West Indies triumphed over New Zealand by seven wickets. Shemaine Campbelle's explosive 90 runs and Aaliyah Alleyne's four-wicket haul were pivotal in this victory. The match showcased intense competition, with the West Indies avenging their previous semi-final defeat. Discover how the match unfolded and the key performances that led to this exciting win.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 14, 2026, 06:12 IST

West Indies Secures Victory Against New Zealand

In an exciting start to their ICC Women's T20 World Cup journey, the West Indies emerged victorious against the defending champions, New Zealand, winning by seven wickets in Southampton on Saturday.

Shemaine Campbelle played a pivotal role in the chase, scoring an impressive 90 runs off 62 balls, which included seven fours and three sixes.

Aaliyah Alleyne's Bowling Heroics

Aaliyah Alleyne's outstanding bowling performance, taking four wickets for 27 runs, was crucial in limiting New Zealand to 162 runs for six wickets in their allotted 20 overs.

After opting to field first, Alleyne struck early by dismissing Georgia Plimmer for 8, breaking the initial 49-run partnership. She followed up by taking the key wickets of Amelia Kerr (5) and Isabella Gaze, who scored 39 runs off 29 balls.

New Zealand found themselves in trouble at 56 for 3 in just 7.4 overs.

Sophie Devine contributed 22 runs off 15 balls, forming a 45-run partnership with Brooke Halliday, which helped New Zealand surpass the 100-run mark.

Halliday scored 40 runs off 32 balls, while Maddy Green added an unbeaten 35 runs off 22 balls, leading New Zealand to a total of 162.

Campbelle and Matthews Lead the Chase

Captain Hayley Matthews aimed to set a strong foundation for her team and did so with a solid 74-run partnership with Campbelle after the early dismissal of Qiana Joseph for just 2 runs.

Matthews scored 48 runs off 37 balls, hitting six fours and a six.

Despite a mix-up that led to Joseph's run-out, the West Indies maintained their momentum.

Campbelle showcased her power-hitting skills, reaching her first T20I fifty with a massive shot over long-on.

As the match approached its conclusion, Campbelle kept her composure, guiding the West Indies to victory with just one ball remaining.

Jess Kerr was the standout bowler for New Zealand, claiming 2 wickets for 17 runs in her four overs.

This victory allowed the West Indies to avenge their semi-final loss to New Zealand in the previous T20 World Cup.