New Zealand v West Indies, 2005-06

At Christchurch, February 25, 2006 (day/night). New Zealand won by 21 runs. Toss: New Zealand.

New Zealand clinched the series after West Indies lost their way on a good batting surface. New Zealand had stuttered to 64 for three, but took control through Astle's mastery of the art of one-day batting. Supported by Marshall, who helped him add 99, Astle breezed to his 16th oneday century, and celebrated with sixes from Gayle's last three balls of the innings. Again New Zealand had aimed for 300, but 276 was more than competitive on a pitch that seemed to lose its life under the lights. Gayle blasted 38 from 23 balls, Morton was solid again, and Sarwan's class shone through, but from 126 for two after 20 overs West Indies lost regular wickets, three to the off-spinner Patel: a late flourish from Bradshaw made the outcome look closer than it actually was.

Man of the Match: N. J. Astle. Attendance: 15,543.