Phillips' record ton helps New Zealand thrash West Indies to claim T20 series

Gulf Today Report

New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips scored a record century as host crushed West Indies by 72 runs in the second Twenty20 international to clinch series with a game to spare at the Bay Oval on Sunday.

Right-handed wicketkeeper-batsman’s 108 off 51 balls was peppered with eight sixes and 10 fours and was the eighth and fastest ton by a New Zealander in T20 internationals.

The Black Caps posted a massive 238 for the loss of just three wickets, which left the West Indies facing the second highest chase in Twenty20 history to win.

In reply, visitor managed to reach only 166 for nine in their allotted 20 overs.

New Zealand, who won the first match by five wickets, lead the series 2-0 with the third and final match to be played in Mount Maunganui on Monday.

The 23-year-old Phillips was well supported by Devon Conway, who hit a 37-balls 65 as the duo shared a 184-run stand for the third wicket.

Martin Guptill, who opened the innings, also contributed 34 runs.

Skipper Kieron Pollard (28 ) was the top scorer for the visitors before becoming Mitchell Santner's victim.

Chasing the mammoth total, West Indies kept on losing their wickets at regular intervals and were never in contention.

Apart from Pollard, Keemo Paul and Shimron Hetmyer scored 26* and 25 runs respectively. For the hosts, Kyle Jamieson starred with the ball as he returned with figures of 2/15 in his four overs.