Sherfane Rutherford’s spectacular innings led the West Indies to a thrilling victory over New Zealand in Match 26 of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, Trinidad. This crucial win not only marked their third consecutive victory but also secured their spot in the Super 8 from Group C.
Batting first, the West Indies managed a modest total of 149 after a shaky start, thanks to Rutherford’s unbeaten 68 off 39 balls. Trent Boult was the standout bowler for New Zealand, taking three wickets. In response, the Blackcaps faltered throughout their innings, finishing at 136/9 in their 20 overs. Alzarri Joseph shone with the ball for the hosts, taking four crucial wickets.
What makes Rutherford’s innings stand out in this T20 World Cup? Here are three reasons why his knock is the best so far.
1. Historic Progression: West Indies Reach Second Round for the First Time Since 2016
Rutherford’s knock was crucial in propelling the West Indies into the second round of the T20 World Cup for the first time since their victory in 2016. That memorable year saw them defeat England in the final with Carlos Brathwaite’s iconic four consecutive sixes off Ben Stokes.
In contrast, the 2021 edition saw the West Indies win only one out of five group games, failing to reach the semi-finals as England and South Africa advanced. The 2022 edition was even more disappointing, with the team failing to progress past the first round after losses to Ireland and Scotland. Rutherford’s performance has finally reversed their fortunes, leading the Caribbean team back to success.
2. Single-Handedly Stunned New Zealand Bowlers
Rutherford arrived at the crease with the West Indies in deep trouble at 22/4 in the sixth over. After cautiously assessing the pitch, he launched his first six after 10 balls. At 76/7, with no specialist batter left, Rutherford kept his cool and aimed to stay until the end.
In the 19th over, Rutherford smashed three sixes off Daryl Mitchell and completed his fifty in 33 balls. He then took 18 runs off the final over bowled by Mitchell Santner, ensuring the West Indies posted a competitive total. His innings included two fours and eight sixes.
Despite not playing in any IPL 2024 games for Kolkata Knight Riders, Rutherford kept himself prepared for this moment. Reflecting on his performance, he said:
“I was just telling myself to take it deep. Me and (Daren) Sammy had a talk, and he said, ‘Try and take it deep. Keep rotating it.’ I started feeling a momentum shift and thought we could always make up in the end.”
3. Ending New Zealand’s Dominance in ICC Events
New Zealand was 32/1 at the end of five overs, but the quick dismissals of Finn Allen and Kane Williamson changed the game. Other batters, except Glenn Phillips (40), struggled, and the Kiwis fell short by 13 runs.
This loss ended New Zealand’s impressive run in ICC events. They were runners-up in the 2021 T20 World Cup and reached the semi-finals in 2022. They also made it to the knockout stages of the 2023 ODI World Cup. Rutherford’s knock played a key role in halting their success streak.
Reflecting on the match, New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson said:
“I think if we look at the two matches to start off, no doubt they’ve been disappointing. You come to a world event; you want to start well. And to be honest, we needed to have been better in these conditions specifically.”
West Indies’ critical match against Afghanistan is set for Monday, June 17, where Rutherford will look to continue his remarkable form.
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