New Zealand Leads Against West Indies in Thrilling Wellington Test

New Zealand established a commanding position in the second Test against the West Indies at Basin Reserve in Wellington, concluding Day 2 with a 73-run lead in the first innings. Key contributions came from Devon Conway and Mitchell Hay, both of whom scored half-centuries, helping their side to a total of 278 runs after being bowled out. The West Indies, who earlier posted 205 runs, ended the day at 32 for 2, still trailing by 41 runs.

Resuming play from an overnight score of 24 without loss, New Zealand faced an early setback when Tom Latham was dismissed. However, Devon Conway and Kane Williamson forged a valuable partnership, adding 67 runs to the total before New Zealand lost their captain, followed closely by Rachin Ravindra and Conway, all after crossing the 100-run mark. Conway, dismissed by Justin Greaves after scoring 60 runs from 108 balls, included eight boundaries in his innings and marked his 13th half-century in Test cricket, according to ESPNcricinfo.

Mitchell Hay, on his Test debut, played a significant role in stabilizing the innings. He built a 73-run partnership with Daryl Mitchell, but after Mitchell’s dismissal, Hay continued to accumulate runs until he was dismissed by Ojay Shields for 61 runs off 93 balls, featuring nine fours and one six. This innings also marked Hay’s 18th half-century in First-Class cricket, showcasing his potential on the international stage.

As the day progressed, New Zealand’s bowlers took control, especially in a remarkable 10-over spell that saw two West Indies batsmen dismissed. Michael Rae claimed the wicket of John Campbell with an incoming delivery, while Jacob Duffy trapped nightwatchman Anderson Phillip in front. By stumps, Brandon King remained unbeaten on 15, alongside Kavem Hodge, who had 3 runs, as the West Indies struggled to build momentum against a disciplined New Zealand bowling attack.

With New Zealand setting a challenging target, the third day’s play promises to be crucial for both teams as the West Indies look to recover from their precarious position.