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New Zealand’s power-hitter Mark Chapman stole the show in the second T20I against West Indies at Eden Park, Auckland, with a sensational display of clean hitting that left fans and opponents in awe. After West Indies won the toss and chose to bowl first, the stage was set for a contest that promised fireworks — and Chapman ensured it delivered in full measure.
Decent start for New Zealand before West Indies bounce back
The Kiwis began their innings with a solid opening stand as Tim Robinson and Devon Conway added 55 runs. Robinson was the aggressor early on, finding gaps and clearing the infield with ease, while Conway took time to settle in. However, just when New Zealand looked set for a big opening partnership, the visitors bounced back, removing both openers in quick succession to regain momentum.
By the halfway mark, West Indies seemed to have a strong grip on the game, with New Zealand struggling to convert their starts into something substantial. But what followed was pure destruction.
Mark Chapman turns the tide with a breathtaking assault
With the innings teetering, Chapman walked in and completely changed the complexion of the match. The left-hander took a few deliveries to assess conditions, scoring just 12 runs off his first 10 balls at a strike rate of 120. What came next was a batting masterclass.
Over the next 18 balls, Chapman unleashed a barrage of boundaries and towering sixes, smashing 66 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 366.67. His final score of 78 runs off 28 balls included five fours and seven sixes, showcasing not just his power but also impeccable timing and shot selection.
Chapman’s innings derailed the West Indies bowling plans entirely. Bowlers who had earlier maintained tight lines were forced into defensive tactics as Chapman dominated both pace and spin alike. His onslaught silenced the visiting players and electrified the Eden Park crowd.
Towards the end, cameos from Daryl Mitchell and Mitchell Santner added valuable runs, pushing New Zealand’s total past the 200-run mark, setting up a daunting chase for the visitors.
Fans go wild over Chapman’s explosive innings
As soon as Chapman began his fireworks, social media erupted with reactions from fans and cricket experts alike. Supporters hailed his breathtaking acceleration and ability to turn the tide under pressure. The left-hander’s performance not only gave New Zealand the upper hand in the match but also reinforced his reputation as one of the most destructive middle-order batters in world T20 cricket.
Here’s how fans reacted:
A MARK CHAPMAN SHOW AGAINST WEST INDIES IN 2ND T20I.
– 78(28) with 6 fours & 7 Sixes.🥶
— MANU. (@IMManu_18)
Mark Chapman 👍🏻
— Nemesis♐ (@fara_s)
78 (28) a solid knock by Mark Chapman against west Indies. 💀
— Danish (@BhttDNSH100)
why IPL teams ain't getting Mark Chapman…proper ball striking. crazy hitting today vs WI..
— Aravind (@netcitizen)
Most people are ignoring him, but Mark Chapman is a top-class player and a true finisher. His hitting ability is extraordinary — Rajasthan Royals must grab this opportunity in the IPL! 🏏🔥
— @SUNKISSEDSOUL (@Sunkissedsoul0)
Mark Chapman answering his critics and some. Boy he can slap a cricket ball…
— Ben Strang (@BenJStrang)
MARK CHAPMAN GOES BERSERK! 🔥
A sensational 50 off just 19 balls against West Indies! 💥🇳🇿— Akaran.A (@Akaran_1)
NZ IS IN STRONG POSITION AFTER BRILLIANT KNOCK OF MARK CHAPMAN 👏 🙌
— 𝐅 𝐀 𝐈 𝐙 �� 𝐍 💫🇵🇰 (@Faizanali_152)
A MAD KNOCK BY MARK CHAPMAN – 78 RUNS FROM JUST 28 BALLS. 🤯
— 𝐖𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐕��𝐫𝐚𝐭 𝐊𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐢𝟏𝟖 (@WeAreVirat)
Wonderful 51* by mark chapman
Smashing bowlers all over the park
Punishing every bad ball
He deserves ipl contract than any nz batter in 2026
He is a clutch player team needed— Joffrey (@Bhaskartweets_)
