WI vs NZ Match Prediction: Who Will Win 5th ODI of New Zealand Tour of West Indies 2026?

The ODI series between the West Indies and New Zealand comes to an end with the fifth and final match at the historic Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. New Zealand go into the game with plenty of confidence after winning the fourth ODI by one wicket to take a 3-1 lead in the series. They will now look to finish the series with a convincing 4-1 scoreline.

West Indies, on the other hand, will be eager to bounce back and end the series with a win in front of their home fans. With both teams aiming to finish on a high, another exciting contest is expected. In this article, we look at the pitch report, weather forecast, probable playing 11, key players, and our match prediction for the fifth ODI.

WI vs NZ Match Preview

West Indies were in a good position to post a competitive total but lost wickets at regular intervals, resulting in another batting collapse. Chasing 189, New Zealand held their nerve in a tense run chase. Mark Chapman played a crucial knock, while the lower-order batters made valuable contributions to guide the visitors to 189/9 in 44.1 overs, sealing a thrilling one-wicket victory.

With New Zealand already holding an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series, the fifth ODI is a chance for West Indies to restore some pride by ending the series with a win. However, based on current form and recent performances, New Zealand appear to have the upper hand and are favourites to win today's match.

WI vs NZ Match Details

WI vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, has largely favoured the bowlers throughout this series. The surface has tended to play on the slower side, with the ball coming onto the bat slowly, making fluent stroke-making a challenge. Batters who are willing to spend time in the middle and pick the right deliveries to attack will find success, while reckless shot selection will quickly result in lost wickets. A first-innings total of around 240 to 260 should be a highly competitive score on this track.

WI vs NZ Weather Report

The weather in Bridgetown, Barbados, is expected to be warm and humid during the fifth ODI at Kensington Oval. The forecast suggests partly cloudy skies with temperatures hovering around 30-31°C. While there is always a slight chance of a brief passing shower in the Caribbean, long spells of heavy rain are not anticipated. Fans can safely expect a full, uninterrupted 50-over match to conclude the series.

WI vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats & Records

Before the fifth and final ODI, West Indies and New Zealand have faced each other 75 times in ODI cricket. New Zealand have the better head-to-head record with 36 wins, while West Indies have won 32 matches. Seven games have ended with no result.

New Zealand have already won the series with a 3-1 lead and head into the final ODI with the confidence of three consecutive victories. Based on their recent form and overall performance in the series, as per our WI vs NZ match prediction, New Zealand are expected to win the fifth ODI and complete a 4-1 series victory.

WI vs NZ Probable Playing XI

One of the best cricket teams in the world, New Zealand are likely to stick with the same playing 11 after their thrilling one-wicket win in the fourth ODI, which helped them secure the series. Keeping a winning combination unchanged could help them carry their momentum into the final match.

West Indies, on the other hand, will be aiming to finish the series on a positive note. The hosts are expected to make a few changes to their playing 11 as they look for the right balance and a much-needed consolation victory.

West Indies Probable Playing 11

Justin Greaves, Ackeem Auguste, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (c & wk), Amir Jangoo, Sherfane Rutherford, Matthew Forde, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales, Vitel Lawes, Alzarri Joseph.

New Zealand Probable Playing 11

Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Nick Kelly, Mark Chapman, Tom Latham (wk), Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, Jayden Lennox, Matthew Fisher.

WI vs NZ Predicted Top Batters

• Shai Hope: In the last game of the series, all the eyes will be on the West Indies skipper, Shai Hope. Despite a quiet run recently, he possesses immense quality and will be determined to deliver a commanding innings to lead his team from the front.
• Mark Chapman: The dynamic Kiwi batter, Mark Chapman, was the hero of the 4th ODI, smashing a crucial 80 runs off 82 balls to anchor New Zealand's dramatic, final-wicket run chase. Brimming with confidence, he remains a top pick for this final clash.

WI vs NZ Predicted Top Bowlers

• Matthew Fisher: The speedster, Matthew Fisher, delivered an impressive spell in the previous ODI, picking up 3 wickets while conceding just 40 runs in his 8 overs at an economy rate of 5.00.
• Gudakesh Motie: One of the best spinners in the world, Motie was outstanding in the last ODI, picking up a five-wicket haul while conceding just 47 runs in his 10-over spell. His ability to generate turn and make the most of spin-friendly conditions makes him one of the biggest threats with the ball in this match.

WI vs NZ Today Match Prediction: New Zealand to Win Match

According to our WI vs NZ match prediction, although West Indies will be eager to end the series with a win at home, New Zealand go into the final ODI with all the momentum. The Black Caps have performed better throughout the series, with their disciplined bowling attack putting the West Indies batters under pressure in every match. With their key players in good form and the confidence of three straight wins, New Zealand look well placed to make the most of the conditions at Kensington Oval.