Jayden Lennox Claims Maiden Five-Wicket Haul as New Zealand Level ODI Series Against West Indies: New Zealand crushed the West Indies by five wickets in the second One-Day International, taking a complete all-round performance to level the three-match ODI series at 1-1, with one match left, in Guyana. The bowling effort was led by left-arm spinner Jayden Lennox, who took a five-wicket haul (5 for 19); it was his first in men’s ODI cricket as he skittled the West Indies batting.
Asked to bat first, the West Indies initially got off to a good start as John Campbell (43) and Ackeem Auguste (18) shared a 63-run opening partnership. But the innings fell apart as soon as New Zealand brought spin into the attack. Captain Shai Hope and free-stroking Sherfane Rutherford were cleaned up by some tight bowling from Lennox, who delivered a devastating double blow. Both Hadley Mathews and Evan Jones took two wickets each, along with Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell, while Ross Taylor also got in on the action. The hosts were dismissed for a mere 138 in 36 overs, with nine of the ten wickets falling to New Zealand’s spin attack.
After two early wickets in pursuit of a moderate target, there was never any part of New Zealand’s innings where they were not on top. Will Young also gave the chase a whipping start with 28 while Tom Latham secured it in an anchored role with 37 not out. Daryl Mitchell had scored 28 while New Zealand chased down the target in just 32.4 overs with Michael Bracewell and Latham finishing unbeaten to chase down the same with more than 17 overs remaining.
His magnificent spell with the ball also allowed him to claim his first ODI five-wicket haul, which further proved why he is becoming an integral part of New Zealand’s bowling unit. He could turn conditions and was awarded Player of the Match for his efforts, alongside a sense of vindication for the Black Caps recovering after their opening ODI defeat.
At 1-1, the series is like a knockout match where both teams would try to win the series. The home side will hope to be able to build on the momentum of this comprehensive victory while the West Indies will look to bounce back, hoping for an improved batting attack in the final clash.
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