13-Jun-2024, Thurs.
West Indies captain Rovman Powell praised Sherfane Rutherford’s exceptional innings, stating that it was the difference between the two sides in their match against New Zealand.
Rutherford’s impressive batting helped the West Indies post a competitive total, which ultimately led to their 13-run victory over New Zealand in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.Rutherford’s innings was particularly notable for its quality and impact. He scored 68* off 39 deliveries, taking the West Indies to 149/9.
His batting depth and aggressive play were crucial in the final overs, as he scored 37 runs in the last two overs to help the West Indies reach a total that proved difficult for New Zealand to chase. Powell praised Rutherford’s innings, saying that it was fantastic and gave the team confidence during the innings break. He also acknowledged that the West Indies bowlers learned from New Zealand’s strategy in the first innings and adapted their approach accordingly. The bowlers, including Alzarri Joseph and Gudakesh Motie, performed well, taking four and three wickets respectively, to help the West Indies restrict New Zealand to 136/9. New Zealand captain Kane Williamson also acknowledged the quality of Rutherford’s innings, stating that it was the real difference between the two sides. He noted that the batting depth from the West Indies was beneficial and that the aggressive approach by Rutherford in the final overs was frustrating for New Zealand.
Overall, Rutherford’s innings were instrumental in the West Indies victory, and Powell’s praise reflects the significant impact it had on the match.
The key moments in Sherfane Rutherford’s innings were:
- Rescue Mission: Rutherford’s unbeaten 68 off 39 balls lifted the West Indies from the depths of 30/5 in the seventh over to a competitive 149/9, transforming the match from a potential loss to a competitive total.
- Aggressive Play: Rutherford’s aggressive batting in the final two overs, bowled by Daryl Mitchell and Santner, saw him score 37 runs, taking the West Indies to a total that proved difficult for New Zealand to chase
- Batting Depth: Rutherford’s innings was supported by the lower order, with valuable contributions from Akeal Hosein (28), Romario Shepherd (27), and Gudakesh Motie (0*), which added to the West Indies’ total.
- Six Sixes: Rutherford hit six sixes in his innings, which was crucial in taking the West Indies to a competitive total.
