Prior to the match the atmosphere at the Brian Lara Academy was one of excitement and anticipation after two victories to start the tournament for West Indies.

Six overs later, it had all fallen rather flat as the order was dismantled by New Zealand’s high class and highly experienced new-ball attack, led by Trent Boult.

In the next 12 overs the locals were stirred occasionally but, whenever West Indies appeared to be gaining momentum, a wicket fell.

Rutherford had scored only 20 after facing 21 balls but, having seen his team-mates come in, hit a boundary or two and swiftly get out, he knew he had to bide his time.

It was only when the ninth wicket went down that he really let loose, justifying his decision to turn down a single from the first ball of the 19th over by hitting three of the next four for six.

Two fours and another maximum off Santner followed in the last and, from hoping to claw their way to 120, West Indies had surged to within touching distance of 150.

It was much more of a team effort with the ball but Joseph and Motie claimed the key wickets.

Joseph removed Finn Allen after the opener’s quick start before Motie did for Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra in his first two overs.

He then bowled Daryl Mitchell with a beauty in his third to put West Indies firmly on top.

Phillips briefly threatened to provide the game with another twist, but Joseph put an end to that as West Indies closed on the win.

As Santner clubbed three sixes in the last over, sharply reducing the margin of victory, the value of Rutherford’s knock was made all the clearer.