Rutherford’s Heroics Propel West Indies to Super Eight
Sherfane Rutherford delivered a career-best unbeaten half-century, guiding the West Indies to a thrilling 13-run victory over New Zealand, securing their place in the T20 World Cup’s Super Eight stage.
Rutherford’s Explosive Innings
Rutherford showcased the innings of his life, smashing half a dozen sixes and two fours to score 68 off 39 balls. His explosive performance helped lift the West Indies from a precarious 76 for 7 in 12.3 overs to a competitive 149 for 9 after New Zealand opted to bowl in this virtual knockout Group C fixture.
Bowlers Seal the Victory
In response, the West Indies bowlers took charge, restricting New Zealand to 136 for 9. Rutherford’s fellow Guyanese, Gudakesh Motie, impressed with figures of 3/25. Pacer Alzarri Joseph turned up the heat lower down the order, becoming the wrecker-in-chief with his 4/19.
Preparation and Determination
After the match, Rutherford spoke to broadcasters, revealing his preparation during his time with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL. Despite not getting a game, he focused on training diligently for the World Cup.
“Want to thank God for the opportunity. I was in IPL for two months. I was preparing even though I wasn’t playing. I was preparing for this,” Rutherford said, who won the Player of the Match award.
Strategy and Execution
Rutherford discussed his strategy during the innings, highlighting a conversation with Daren Sammy about taking the game deep and rotating the strike.
“To take it deep was the plan. Me and (Daren) Sammy had a talk. We spoke of taking it deep and just keep rotating the strike as I can make up for it later on. (On his strategy for the last two overs where he scored 37 runs) Looking at their bowling lineup I knew they were short of two overs and I was telling myself to take it deep. Wanted to maximise on those overs. That was the plan and I think it did that well. Hopefully the start of something to come,” he added.
Celebration
Reflecting on the match and his performance, Rutherford concluded with a light-hearted note, “I will have chicken curry for tonight.”(live score cricket ipl)