Sherfane Rutherford’s sensational performance ensured West Indies' third consecutive win in the T20 World Cup 2024, securing their spot in the Super Eight and putting New Zealand on the verge of elimination at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba on Thursday.

Despite losing four wickets in the powerplay, Rutherford's rescue act helped West Indies recover from 112 for 9 to post 149. Rutherford smashed 37 runs in the final two overs, turning the game around.

Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, and Akeal Hosein shone with the ball, leading to New Zealand’s second defeat in as many games. Rutherford’s heroics at the death, hitting 37 off the last two overs, including a blistering 33-ball half-century, were pivotal.

New Zealand’s early chase showed promise with Finn Allen’s aggression, but Motie’s crucial strikes, combined with Joseph’s efforts, halted their momentum.

Motie claimed key wickets, while Joseph’s spell choked New Zealand, culminating in Phillips’ dismissal and a four-wicket haul for Joseph.

Trent Boult and Tim Southee impressed early on, but Rutherford’s late blitz turned the tide, ensuring West Indies’ victory and New Zealand’s precarious position.

Scoreboard:

West Indies: 149-9 off 20 overs (Sherfane Rutherford 68 not out, Nicholas Pooran 17; Trent Boult 3-16, Tim Southee 2-21, Lockie Ferguson 2-27).

New Zealand: 136-9 off 20 overs (Glenn Phillips 40, Finn Allen 26, Mitchell Santner 21 not out; Alzarri Joseph 4-19, Gudakesh Motie 3-25, Akeal Hosein 1-21).

Result: West Indies won by 13 runs