Introduction : NZ vs WI Dream11 Predictions (3rd T20I 2025)
The clash between New Zealand (NZ) and West Indies (WI) promises fireworks as both sides square off in the 3rd T20I of 2025. Fantasy-cricket enthusiasts are eager to finalize their NZ vs WI Dream11 Predictions with the right mix of form, stats, and tactical insight.
In this detailed guide, you’ll find everything you need — from the predicted playing XI and pitch report to first two T20I highlights and Dream 11 team combinations (league-wise). Whether you play small-league H2H matches or go bold in Grand Leagues, this article gives you the competitive edge.
Match Overview & Context
Series & Match Details
- Series: West Indies tour of New Zealand 2025
- Match: 3rd T20I
- Venue: Saxton Oval, Nelson
- Date & Time: November 9, 2025 | 1:15 PM Local | 5:45 AM IST | 00:15 AM GMT
New Zealand are the home favorites, but the West Indies’ explosive all-rounders have made this series unpredictable. The two sides have shared momentum in the first two matches, setting up a thrilling decider.
Head-to-Head Snapshot
- Total T20Is: 22
- New Zealand Wins: 11
- West Indies Wins: 8
- No Result: 3
New Zealand enjoy a narrow lead historically, yet West Indies’ power-packed middle order ensures every encounter is competitive.
Pitch Report – Saxton Oval, Nelson
The Saxton Oval wicket typically offers balanced conditions. Batters can play through the line early, but bowlers find grip and variation later.
Pitch Characteristics
- Average 1st-innings score: 165 runs
- Optimal strategy: Bat first and apply scoreboard pressure
- Spin assists: Moderate in middle overs
- Pacers impact: Effective with new ball and at the death
Fantasy-wise, prioritize top-order batters and multi-skill all-rounders who can impact both innings.
First Two T20Is – Key Highlights & Fantasy Lessons
1st T20I – West Indies Edge a Thriller
- Venue: Eden Park, Auckland
- Result: West Indies won by 7 runs
- Scores: WI 164/6 | NZ 157/9
Top performers:
- Mitchell Santner (NZ): 55 (28) + 1 wicket
- Rovman Powell (WI): 45 (16)
- Romario Shepherd (WI): 2/31
Fantasy takeaway: All-rounders dominated as batters struggled to adjust early. Power-hitters like Powell delivered premium points.
2nd T20I – New Zealand Bounce Back
- Venue: University Oval, Dunedin
- Result: NZ won by 3 runs
- Scores: NZ 207/5 | WI 204/8
Top performers:
- Mark Chapman (NZ): 78 (28) – Player of the Match
- Mitchell Santner (NZ): 3 wickets
- Shai Hope (WI): 60 (37)
Fantasy takeaway: High-scoring encounter favored aggressive batters and death-over bowlers. Venue likely to produce similar run-rich conditions in Nelson.
Predicted Playing XI – NZ vs WI 3rd T20I 2025
New Zealand Predicted XI
- Tim Robinson
- Devon Conway (wk)
- Rachin Ravindra
- Mark Chapman
- Daryl Mitchell
- Michael Bracewell
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Kyle Jamieson
- Ish Sodhi
- Jacob Duffy
- Zakary Foulkes
West Indies Predicted XI
- Brandon King
- Alick Athanaze
- Shai Hope (wk/c)
- Roston Chase
- Ackeem Auguste
- Rovman Powell
- Jason Holder
- Romario Shepherd
- Akeal Hosein
- Jayden Seales
- Matthew Forde
These XIs are based on series form and team composition trends.
Top Fantasy Picks for NZ vs WI Dream11 Predictions
Must-Have Players
| Player | Team | Role | Fantasy Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mark Chapman | NZ | Batter | Explosive striker in form |
| Mitchell Santner | NZ | All-rounder | Wickets + handy runs |
| Rovman Powell | WI | Batter | Power-hitter / captain |
| Romario Shepherd | WI | All-rounder | Death bowler & finisher |
| Ish Sodhi | NZ | Bowler | Middle-over wicket-taker |
Budget Differentials
- Tim Robinson – Aggressive top-order option.
- Roston Chase – Off-spin + stability in middle order.
- Akeal Hosein – Economical left-arm spinner with death-overs impact.
Fantasy Team Strategy & Captain Choices
Game Awareness
- If NZ bat first: Load up on top order and spinners.
- If WI chase: Back finishers like Powell and Shepherd.
- Saxton Oval usually favors batting first but dew can make chasing easier.
Ideal Captain and Vice-Captain Combinations
- (C) Mitchell Santner | (VC) Mark Chapman
- (C) Rovman Powell | (VC) Romario Shepherd
- (C) Mark Chapman | (VC) Ish Sodhi
League-Wise Dream11 Teams
🟩 Small League / Head-to-Head (Safe)
Captain: Mitchell Santner
Vice-Captain: Mark Chapman
Team Composition
- WK: Shai Hope
- Batters: Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Tim Robinson
- All-rounders: Santner, Bracewell, Romario Shepherd
- Bowlers: Ish Sodhi, Akeal Hosein, Kyle Jamieson, Jayden Seales
✅ Focus: Consistency and dual-role players
🟧 Grand League (High Risk / High Reward)
Captain: Mark Chapman
Vice-Captain: Romario Shepherd
Team Composition
- WK: Shai Hope
- Batters: Chapman, Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway
- All-rounders: Santner, Roston Chase, Michael Bracewell
- Bowlers: Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, Akeal Hosein, Jacob Duffy
✅ Focus: Aggressive batters + death bowlers for maximum upside
🟨 Mega League (Mix of Form & Differentials)
Captain: Romario Shepherd
Vice-Captain: Rovman Powell
- WK: Shai Hope
- Batters: Chapman, Conway, Powell
- All-rounders: Santner, Shepherd, Chase
- Bowlers: Sodhi, Seales, Jamieson, Hosein
✅ Focus: Balanced squad across teams with death overs specialists
Statistical Snapshot
| Aspect | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Batting Depth | West Indies |
| Bowling Variety | New Zealand |
| Powerplay Efficiency | New Zealand |
| Death Overs Bowling | West Indies |
| Home Advantage | New Zealand |
Common Fantasy Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring death-over bowlers who take wickets in clusters.
- Selecting non-confirmed players without checking toss.
- Relying too heavily on big names instead of current form.
- Skipping wicketkeepers who bat in top 4.
- Neglecting the impact of dew during night matches.
Expert Fantasy Tips for NZ vs WI Dream11 Predictions
- Pick at least 2 all-rounders – Santner & Shepherd are non-negotiable.
- Include one leg-spinner (Sodhi or Hosein) for middle-over control.
- Don’t ignore form batters – Chapman and Hope are consistent scorers.
- Use differentials like Robinson or Bracewell to stand out in large leagues.
- Track final line-ups – last-minute changes often decide fantasy results.
Updated Weather Forecast for Nelson
- Temperature: 22–24 °C
- Rain Chance: 10 %
- Humidity: 70 %
- Wind: Moderate, helpful for seamers early on
Expect a full 20-over contest with mild dew toward the second innings.
FAQs on NZ vs WI Dream11 Predictions
Who should be captain in small leagues?
Mitchell Santner — because he scores points through both bat and ball.
What’s the best differential pick for grand leagues?
Romario Shepherd and Roston Chase can outscore popular picks if conditions suit.
Which team has the better chance to win?
New Zealand hold a slight edge at home, but West Indies have the momentum and firepower to pull off a win.
What is the average first-innings score at Saxton Oval?
Between 160 and 170 runs, with the team batting first often winning tight matches.
Should you pick both teams’ spinners?
Yes — Santner and Hosein both excel in middle overs and are economical choices.
How to select Grand League captains?
Opt for high-risk players like Powell or Chapman who can single-handedly change games.
Conclusion
For your NZ vs WI Dream11 Predictions, focus on balanced team selection and venue-specific insights. Saxton Oval’s surface will reward batters early and spinners later, so load up on impact players across both departments. Choose multi-skill performers like Santner and Shepherd as captains and fill the squad with form batters like Chapman and Hope.
With both teams evenly matched, smart fantasy choices will decide your rankings. Stay updated with final toss news and playing XIs before locking in your team. Good luck and happy fantasy gaming!
For real-time updates and final lineups, visit ESPN Cricinfo.
