New Zealand Take 1-0 Lead with a Dominant Win Over West Indies in Wellington
New Zealand began their home Test series against the West Indies in emphatic fashion, registering a comprehensive nine-wicket victory in the first Test at Wellington. The hosts showcased complete control from the opening day, combining disciplined bowling with patient batting to seal the match inside three days and take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
The West Indies showed flashes of promise in both innings, particularly through their openers, but could not maintain momentum against New Zealand’s relentless bowling attack. The consistent pressure from the Kiwi bowlers triggered regular collapses, leaving the visitors struggling throughout the contest.
NZ bowlers shine as WI fold for 205
Batting first, West Indies were restricted to just 205 runs in their first innings. Blair Tickner’s sharp opening spell gave New Zealand the advantage before he had to leave the field due to a shoulder injury. Debutant Michael Rae made an impressive start to his Test career by picking up three vital wickets, maintaining the pressure from both ends.
Jacob Duffy was the standout performer with his tight bowling and was later named Player of the Match for his all-round impact. Despite a promising start from openers John Campbell and Brandon King, the Caribbean side faltered as wickets tumbled in clusters.
Conway and Hay guide NZ to strong lead
New Zealand’s batting built on the early advantage. Opener Devon Conway anchored the innings with a solid knock of 60, supported by debutant Mitchell Hay, who scored a confident 61 on debut. Their efforts helped New Zealand reach 278, building a 73-run lead heading into the West Indies’ second innings.
By the end of Day 2, the visitors were in deep trouble at 32/2, still trailing by 41 runs, as New Zealand’s bowlers continued to dictate terms.
Duffy’s five-for crushes WI resistance
The third day turned into a nightmare for the West Indies batting lineup. Despite efforts from Kavem Hodge and Justin Greaves, wickets kept falling at regular intervals. Jacob Duffy delivered a brilliant spell, claiming five wickets to bowl out the West Indies cheaply and leaving New Zealand with a modest target of 53 runs for victory.
Conway-Williamson finish it in style
Chasing just 56 runs, New Zealand openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway started confidently before Latham’s brief dismissal brought Kane Williamson to the crease. The senior duo, Conway and Williamson, ensured there were no surprises, finishing the chase in only 10 overs.
With this clinical performance, New Zealand now lead the series 1-0 and enter the second Test with momentum on their side.
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