(Credit ICC)
West Indies captain Rovman Powell lauded Sherfane Rutherford’s exceptional innings against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2024, describing it as fantastic. Rutherford’s unbeaten 68-run knock from 39 balls, at a strike rate of 174.36, earned him the Player of the Match award. During his innings, he struck 2 fours and 6 sixes, showcasing his power-hitting prowess.
In his post-match comments, Powell credited Sherfane’s innings for boosting the Caribbean team’s confidence during the interval. He disclosed that the Windies strategized to maintain a hard length while bowling in the second innings.
“Sherfane’s innings was fantastic and gave us confidence during the innings break. What the New Zealand bowlers tried to do well we tried to replicate. At the halfway mark we sat down and discussed trying to hit a hard length and our spinners to spin the ball. We have got to use what we have, we don’t have fast bowlers like New Zealand. Credit to them even with a wet ball, they did well. Such a brilliant night and someone had to stand up and be counted,” Powell said.
In a match summary, Sherfane Rutherford’s outstanding batting performance stood out for the Windies, propelling them to a total of 149/9 in the first innings. Rutherford’s brilliant knock, played at a strike rate of 174.36, was supported by Nicholas Pooran’s contributions.
In response, Trent Boult led the Kiwis’ bowling attack, claiming three wickets, while Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson secured two wickets each.
During the run chase, New Zealand struggled against the Caribbean bowling attack, resulting in a 13-run defeat despite Glenn Phillips’ notable performance.
Alzarri Joseph impressed with the ball, picking up four wickets, while Gudakesh Motie contributed with three wickets in his spell.
For his exceptional performance, Sherfane Rutherford was named the Player of the Match.