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New Zealand secured a nail-biting nine-run victory over the West Indies in Nelson to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match T20I series. Chasing 178, the visitors looked dead and buried at 88 for 8 before Shamar Springer and Romario Shepherd launched an incredible counterattack, smashing 78 runs from just 39 balls to bring their team within touching distance of an unlikely win.

The ninth-wicket partnership transformed what seemed a routine New Zealand victory into a heart-stopping thriller. Springer blazed away to 39 from just 20 balls while Shepherd contributed a vital 49, reducing the equation from an impossible 90 off 45 balls to a gettable 13 off seven deliveries.

Duffy’s Brilliance Seals the Deal
Jacob Duffy proved to be New Zealand’s hero, taking a spectacular return catch to dismiss Springer off the penultimate over’s final ball. With 12 needed from the last over, Kyle Jamieson held his nerve brilliantly, dismissing Shepherd with two balls remaining to seal victory for the Black Caps.

Earlier, Devon Conway’s fluent 56 and Daryl Mitchell’s quickfire 41 helped New Zealand post 177 for 9. The hosts seemed set for a bigger total before losing six wickets for just 35 runs in the final five overs, with Matthew Forde (2-20) and Jason Holder (2-31) applying the brakes effectively.

Spin Twins Wreck Havoc
Ish Sodhi’s leg-spin proved crucial as he claimed 3 for 34, while Duffy’s pace accounted for 3 for 36. The duo reduced West Indies to tatters in the middle overs, setting up what appeared to be a comfortable victory before the late drama unfolded.

The West Indies’ chase never really got going until the ninth-wicket stand. Duffy struck twice in his opening over, removing both openers cheaply. Sodhi then ran through the middle order, leaving the visitors reeling at 88 for 8 before Springer and Shepherd’s heroics.

This result continues New Zealand’s impressive home form, while the West Indies will rue another close finish that slipped through their fingers. The series now moves to Wellington for the fourth T20I, with the Black Caps looking to seal the series and the visitors desperate to keep their hopes alive.