West Indies vs New Zealand – 2nd T20 International Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is West Indies vs New Zealand taking place? Friday, August 12th, 2022 – 19:30 (UK)
Where is West Indies vs New Zealand taking place? Sabina Park, Kingston
What is the expected weather for West Indies vs New Zealand? 30-32c, dry with sunny intervals and a significant breeze throughout
What channel is West Indies vs New Zealand on? The match will be televised live on BT Sport in the UK
Where can I stream West Indies vs New Zealand? BT Sport subscribers will be able to stream the match live via the BT Sport website and app
LAST MEETING
New Zealand beat West Indies by 13 runs
THE TEAM NEWS
WEST INDIES
- West Indies will have to come from behind if they are to emerge victorious in this series after losing the first T20i by 13 runs as they were unable to chase down a total of 186 for the win.
- Odean Smith was by far the Windies’ most impressive player, starring with both ball and bat as he not only took three wickets, but also plundered 27 not out from 12 balls leaving the West Indies coaching staff perhaps wondering what could have been had he been higher up the batting order, so don’t be surprised if Smith is moved up a place or two this time round.
- Captain Nicholas Pooran failed with just 15 in the run chase batting at number three and he is one West Indies player who could definitely do with a big individual score sooner rather than later.
NEW ZEALAND
- New Zealand maintained their winning run across these past couple of months in white ball cricket, batting strongly after losing the toss and being inserted by the hosts to score 185/5, which turned out to be a successful total as they restricted West Indies to 172/7 in response.
- All of New Zealand’s first-choice players came straight back into the side, which was perhaps a little harsh on the likes of Michael Bracewell who had performed so well in Europe, but understandable nonetheless as the Black Caps continue their preparations for the T20 World Cup later this year.
- Trent Boult played following the bombshell news that he will be giving up his NZ central contract and is expected to continue being picked with the left-arm fast bowler still likely to play a crucial role for his country at the upcoming T20 World Cup.
THE PREDICTION
Despite the recent news about Boult, this New Zealand are clearly in a good head space at present and a winning mentality goes a long way in cricket. Whilst the Black Caps line-up looks settled and well prepared, West Indies are still a long way off knowing what their best team is ahead of the T20 World Cup and it would be no surprise if the well documented unavailability of certain players has taken its toll on the dressing room. In terms of this match, it’s hard to back against the tourists when factoring in just how well they are playing currently. Expect New Zealand to extend their winning streak in Sabina Park.
