New Zealand secure T20 series win against Windies

NEW ZEALAND secured the three-match T20 series against the touring West Indies, with a game to spare, after a comfortable 72-run victory in the second T20 International at Mount Maunganui on Sunday.

Glenn Phillips, who has played for the Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) for a few seasons, showed his familiarity with the WI bowlers with a swashbuckling 108 off 51 balls, with ten fours and eight sixes, while Devon Conway was unbeaten on 65 as the Black Caps, who were sent in to bat, compiled 238 runs for the loss of three wickets.

Veteran opener Martin Guptill chipped in with 34.

Phillips' century was the fastest T20 International century for a New Zealander - he reached his landmark off 46 balls, bettering Colin Munro's 47-ball hundred against the WI at the same venue in 2018.

Phillips and Conway had a third-wicket partnership of 184 - New Zealand's highest ever stand in T20 Internationals.

The WI, whose bowling and fielding were inconsistent and ragged, never got going with the bat, as they mustered 166/9 in reply.

Skipper Kieron Pollard led the way with 28, Keemo Paul made 26 not out, Shimron Hetmyer struck 25 while Andre Fletcher and debutant Kyle Mayers each notched 20.

Pace bowler Kyle Jamieson and left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner each grabbed two wickets, while Phillips capped off a fantastic day with two catches and a run-out.

The third and final match of the series will take place at Mount Maunganui on Monday.