Sherfane Rutherford’s spectacular batting display and Alzarri Joseph’s exceptional bowling prowess propelled the West Indies into the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup 2024.
Facing off against New Zealand in a crucial group C encounter at Tarouba, the West Indies clinched a nail-biting 13-run victory, effectively eliminating the Kiwis from the tournament.
Rutherford emerged as the hero of the match, showcasing remarkable batting skills under pressure. His unbeaten innings of 68 runs from just 39 deliveries, embellished with six sixes and two fours, single-handedly resurrected the West Indies’ innings from a precarious position of 76 for 7 in 12.3 overs to a competitive total of 149 for 9.
The West Indies’ bowlers complemented Rutherford’s heroics with an impressive display in the field. Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie contributed significantly, claiming three crucial wickets while conceding just 25 runs.
However, it was the pace sensation Alzarri Joseph who stole the show, wreaking havoc in the New Zealand batting lineup with exceptional figures of 4 for 19.
Despite a valiant effort from Glenn Phillips, who scored a brisk 40 runs off 33 balls, New Zealand failed to chase down the target, ultimately falling short at 136 for 9 in their allotted 19 overs.
This victory marked the West Indies’ third consecutive win in the tournament, securing their berth in the Super 8s—a remarkable achievement for the co-hosts, especially after their absence from the main round in the previous edition held in Australia.
