Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Jacob Duffy starred with figures of 5-38 as New Zealand’s makeshift bowling attack dismissed West Indies for 128 on the third day of the second Test at Basin Reserve. This performance helped New Zealand achieve a comfortable nine-wicket victory, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
With several frontline bowlers missing, including Blair Tickner who dislocated his shoulder on day one, the Black Caps still managed to restrict the West Indies to a low total, giving their batters a target of just 56 runs. Devon Conway remained unbeaten on 28 and Kane Williamson scored 16 not out to guide New Zealand to victory before tea, losing only one wicket.
This was Duffy’s second consecutive five-wicket haul in the series, supported by Michael Rae, who took 3-45 on his Test debut at the age of 30, finishing with six wickets in the match. Duffy praised Rae for his efforts, calling it a great team performance.
West Indies, who had managed a draw in the first Test, struggled to build innings this time. Kavem Hodge was their highest scorer with 35, while only two other players crossed 20 runs. Resuming at 2-32, the Windies started steadily, but key wickets fell quickly, including Brandon King run out and Shai Hope caught and bowled by Rae.
Duffy and Rae continued to dominate, taking wickets at regular intervals until the last man Ojay Shields was caught at fine leg. West Indies captain Roston Chase admitted batting was a concern, saying players failed to make significant starts in both innings.
The series will continue with the third Test starting at Bay Oval next Thursday. With New Zealand now leading 1-0, West Indies will need a strong performance to level the series, while the Black Caps are unbeaten so far and confident heading into the final match.
English
