West Indies finished Day 2 at 32/2, trailing New Zealand by 41 runs after the hosts took a first-innings lead of 73 runs at the Basin Reserve. The visitors face a crucial third day as they aim to set a solid total and remain competitive.
Earlier in the day, West Indies’ bowlers performed well, limiting New Zealand’s lead. Anderson Phillip was the standout, taking three wickets, while Kemar Roach put in a disciplined performance. As a result, New Zealand declared at 278/9. Despite fifties from Devon Conway and debutant wicketkeeper Mitch Hay, New Zealand’s middle order struggled to capitalize on their good starts.
Some key contributions from the lower order helped New Zealand extend their lead, but with a manageable deficit and with 8 wickets remaining, West Indies need a focused batting effort on Day 3 to regain momentum.
Day 2 Highlights
New Zealand resumed Day 2 at 24/0, but West Indies made the early breakthrough when Kemar Roach bowled Tom Latham in the 13th over. Devon Conway and Kane Williamson responded with a solid 67-run stand, with Conway reaching a well-earned fifty. The partnership was broken when Anderson Phillip produced a brilliant delivery to remove Williamson, shifting the momentum toward the visitors.
West Indies capitalised immediately, dismissing Rachin Ravindra and Conway within three balls through Roach and Justin Greaves. Daryl Mitchell and debutant wicketkeeper Mitch Hay then steadied New Zealand with a crucial 73-run partnership. Mitchell fell for 36 after a successful review, while Hay continued confidently to raise his maiden Test fifty. Zakary Foulkes also added a handy 23 in the lower order, helping stretch New Zealand’s advantage.
The Windies attack stayed disciplined, with Ojay Shields removing Hay for 62 and skipper Roston Chase dismissing Glenn Phillips. Despite regular wickets, New Zealand’s lower order pushed the total to 278/9 declared, giving the hosts a 73-run first-innings lead. Blair Tickner did not bat after being ruled out of the match with a shoulder injury.
In reply, West Indies lost two quick wickets before stumps. John Campbell was bowled by Michael Rae, and nightwatchman Anderson Phillip lasted only three balls before Jacob Duffy trapped him LBW. The visitors closed the day at 32/2, trailing by 41 runs, with Brandon King unbeaten on 15 and Kavem Hodge at the other end as they look to fight back on Day 3.
Brief Scores – NZ vs WI 2nd Test (10–14 Dec, Basin Reserve)
West Indies 1st Innings: 205 (75 Overs)
- Hope 48, Campbell 44 | Tickner 4/32
New Zealand 1st Innings: 278/9 dec (74.4 Overs)
- Conway 60, Hay 61 | Phillip 3/70
West Indies 2nd Innings: 32/2 (10 Overs)
- King 15*, Campbell 14 | Rae 1/4
Leave a Comment