West Indies Women vs New Zealand Women Live Score, Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Defending champions New Zealand begin campaign against West Indies

West Indies have not forgotten the heartbreak of the 2024 World Cup semi-final. Chasing victory against New Zealand, they needed 34 runs from the final four overs with five wickets in hand before Amelia Kerr's decisive spell changed the course of the match.

That defeat was followed by the disappointment of missing ODI World Cup qualification by the narrowest of margins. Now, with Hayley Matthews leading a seasoned squad, West Indies have the opportunity to make an immediate statement against the very side that shattered their dreams two years ago.

The tournament carries extra significance for New Zealand's experienced stars. Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates and Lea Tahuhu are all expected to be playing their final global event, adding emotional weight to the White Ferns' campaign.

Under new captain Melie Kerr, New Zealand will be hoping to give their veterans the perfect send-off. Having lifted the trophy in 2024, the defending champions know expectations are high, but they also know opportunities like this do not come around often.

Few players have enjoyed more success against West Indies than Suzie Bates. She has scored more runs against them than any other batter, including five half-centuries, while also claiming 14 wickets at an average below 14.

Yet Bates enters the tournament under pressure after a difficult ODI World Cup and a lean run of scores. With retirement looming and New Zealand beginning their title defence, the experienced opener has the perfect stage to silence doubts and remind everyone why she remains one of the game's greats.

West Indies have been dealt a significant setback before a ball has been bowled. Vice-captain and explosive all-rounder Chinelle Henry suffered an injury while fielding during the warm-up matches and is unlikely to feature.

Her absence leaves a major gap in both batting and bowling departments, forcing the team management to rethink their balance. Against a strong New Zealand side, how West Indies replace one of their most influential players could have a huge bearing on the outcome of the contest.

For the first time at a major tournament, New Zealand arrive under the leadership of Melie Kerr. The all-rounder inherits a side that is no longer the hunter but the hunted after winning the title in 2024.

Expectations remain sky-high, especially with a squad packed with experience and proven match-winners. The challenge for Kerr will be balancing the emotion surrounding the veterans' farewell campaign while ensuring New Zealand remain focused on the task of defending their crown.