The fourth T20I of the five-match series between New Zealand and West Indies at Saxton Oval in Nelson ended without a result due to persistent rain.

West Indies had reached 38 for 1 in 6.3 overs when heavy rain stopped play. They were batting first after being invited by New Zealand. James Neesham made an early breakthrough by dismissing Alick Athanaze in his first over.

Despite several attempts to resume the game, the weather did not improve, and the match was officially abandoned. With this washout, New Zealand took an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series. The West Indies can still draw the series in the fifth and final T20I scheduled in Dunedin on Thursday.

Weather Disruptions from the Start

Rain interruptions were expected even before the match began. Overcast skies loomed over Nelson, and forecasts predicted frequent showers through the afternoon and evening.

Although the game began on time, the first rain delay lasted about 30 minutes after five overs. Play resumed briefly before rain returned nine balls later, ending all hopes of continuation.

Tight Bowling from New Zealand

In the brief passage of play, Kyle Jamieson and Jacob Duffy bowled with precision. They used the swing-friendly conditions effectively, troubling the openers Alick Athanaze and Amir Jangoo.

Both bowlers maintained disciplined lines and lengths on a used surface, forcing several swings and misses. Between overs two and five, the West Indies managed to hit two fours and two sixes, trying to lift the scoring rate.

Neesham then dismissed Athanaze in the sixth over, while Jangoo struck a boundary through the covers to finish the powerplay at 35 runs. However, soon after, heavy rain returned, forcing officials to call off the match completely.

Brief Scorecard