Rutherford, Hetmyer guide tense Windies win over NZ: 5th ODI (Barbados)

The West Indies finished the series with a tense two-wicket victory over New Zealand in the fifth ODI at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown.

New Zealand posted a competitive 268 for 9 after Tom Latham top-scored with 69 and Nick Kelly added 64, but the hosts produced a determined run chase to reach 269 for 8 with 15 balls to spare.

Despite the defeat, New Zealand secured the series 3-2 after winning the previous three matches.

Shimron Hetmyer starred with a fluent 69 from 64 balls, while Sherfane Rutherford’s composed 61 proved equally vital as West Indies recovered from early setbacks to overhaul the target.

New Zealand bowlers Jayden Lennox (3 for 35) and Jacob Duffy (3 for 67) threatened to turn the match in the visitors’ favour, but the home side held its nerve in the closing overs to finish the series with a deserved consolation victory.

West Indies 269 for 8 (Hetmyer 69*, Rutherford 61, Lennox 3-35, Duffy 3-67) beat New Zealand 268 for 9 (Latham 69, Kelly 64, Young 56, Joseph 2-38, Lawes 2-63) by two wickets.

July 2026.