New Zealand and West Indies are set to face each other in the decisive 5th T20I, a match that will determine whether the hosts seal the series or the visitors level it. The final clash will be played on Thursday at University Oval, Dunedin, starting at 11:45 AM IST.
Match Details:
• Date: November 13, Thursday
• Time: 11:45 AM IST
• Venue: University Oval, Dunedin
Match Overview
The five-match T20I series has leaned slightly in New Zealand’s favour, with the hosts holding a 2-1 lead. The fourth game was washed out, denying both teams a chance to shift the momentum. West Indies now step into a must-win situation. A series victory in New Zealand has remained out of their reach for years, and although levelling the series won’t change that history, it will provide a crucial boost for a side searching for consistency.
New Zealand, on the other hand, have been solid in key phases. Their bowlers have controlled the middle overs, while their top order has found rhythm at the right time. With home conditions backing them, the hosts enter this game with a slight edge but cannot afford complacency against a West Indies side that can explode on its day.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
India:
• TV: Sony Sports Network
• App/Website: Sony LIV
Pakistan:
• TV: PTV Sports
• App/Website: Tamasha, ARY ZAP
UK:
• TV: Sky Sports Cricket
• App/Website: Sky Go
USA:
• App/Website: ESPN+
Australia:
• TV: Fox Cricket
• App/Website: Kayo Sports
Head-to-Head in T20Is
• Total Matches: 24
• New Zealand: 13
• West Indies: 8
• No Result: 3
New Zealand hold a clear advantage in the head-to-head tally, especially in home conditions where the West Indies have consistently struggled to sustain pressure.
Probable Playing XIs
New Zealand (Mitchell Santner – Captain):
Tim Robinson, Devon Conway (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, James Neesham, Jacob Duffy
West Indies (Shai Hope – Captain):
Alick Athanaze, Amir Jangoo, Shai Hope (wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell, Roston Chase, Ackeem Auguste, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer
Pitch Report – University Oval, Dunedin
University Oval traditionally offers assistance to bowlers. The surface is low and slow, which often leads to variable bounce during the middle overs. Early in the innings, the grass allows seamers to extract bounce and movement, making the first six overs the best scoring phase for batters. Once the ball becomes softer, timing gets tougher. Shorter boundaries might still keep totals competitive, but 150–165 could be a realistic par score.
Key Players to Watch
New Zealand – Mark Chapman:
Back in the squad and in form, Chapman is expected to play a crucial role in the middle overs. His ability to counter spin and accelerate quickly makes him a dangerous option.
West Indies – Shai Hope:
The captain carries a big responsibility. With West Indies struggling under pressure moments, Hope will need to anchor the innings and guide the younger batting lineup.
Best Bowlers:
• New Zealand – Ish Sodhi: A proven middle-overs wicket-taker who has consistently broken partnerships throughout the series.
• West Indies – Matthew Forde: Their most disciplined bowler, effective with the new ball and at the death.
Probable Scenarios
• Teams winning the toss may choose to bowl first, as early morning conditions in Dunedin often favour seamers.
• Batting will be easiest in the powerplay; middle-overs spin could dictate the momentum.
• The team handling pressure in the final overs, especially with the ball, will have the upper hand.
• West Indies must start strong with the bat; slow starts have cost them throughout the tour.
Match Prediction
West Indies have shown glimpses of potential but have failed to close out crucial passages of play. New Zealand are more settled, better adjusted to the conditions, and stronger in bowling depth. With the series on the line, the hosts are favourites.
Prediction: New Zealand to win the 5th T20I and seal the series.