New Zealand and West Indies begin the second Test at Basin Reserve, Wellington, at a tenuous 0-0 after one of the great fourth innings in modern Test cricket. Hosted by guests Justin Greaves’ unbeaten 202 and Kemar Roach’s gritty 58Produced a stunning regguard to deny New Zealand victory in Christchurch, taking a decision in conditions historically dominated by fast bowlers.
The second test is from December (10-14), starting at 10:00 local time (3:30 AM ist), with blustery winds, lateral movement and real bounce, in a venue that traditionally adapts to violence and faces tough scrutiny.
Basin Reserve Conditions favor Mariners
A fast bowler in the basin reserve has had a long, mid-20s middle ball, often with more success than the new ball that shapes the direction of a Test within the opening hour. Gusty Wellington winds, a feature of the ground, can increase swing, with cloudy spells generally providing steady help from the pitch.
Spinners tend to affect the game three days after the toys have developed, but once the cloud patches in, the predictions will take center stage once again in this contest.
New Zealand Buys After Christchurch Letdown
The hosts dominated significant parts of the first Test, only to trail victory due to missed chances – including dropped and mishandled tackles. Captain Tom Latham will require sharper execution in Wellington as his side look to make it a series win.
With batting steadiness from Kane Williamson, Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell, all-round support from Racine Ravindra and Michael Bracewell, New Zealand’s top order settled down. The big problem lies in the bowling department where the injuries of the senior pacers have left the attack thin.
The responsibility will fall on the trio Jacob DuffyBlair Tickner and Young Quick Christian Clarke will each enjoy a seam-friendly basin spare track. Their ability to strike early could dictate whether New Zealand claim the upper hand from the start.
West Indies Eye Rare Number Series win
The visitors are banking on Wellington, whose historic run in Christchurch – their highest-ever fourth innings and one of the most resolute defensive performances in Test history. Greaves’ double hundred and Roach’s stoic composure highlighted the team’s resilience and revived confidence in his shop boss.
The West Indies also drew confidence from the Bowling Group, the first Test left-arm spinner who created many opportunities with his first Test and a strong PACE, who created many opportunities and would remain competitive on a strong surface.
Captain Roston Chase will push for the bowlers to start from the best order to give them runs to defend – something that could swing their way if early wickets fall.
Read: Key players ruled out as New Zealand name squad for second test against West Indies
Basin reserve test statistics and records
- Total Matches: 72
- Matches won by batting first: 17th year
- Matches won by bowling first: 29
- Average 1st innings score: 314
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 307
- Average 3rd Innings Score: 251
- Average 4th innings: 142
- Highest overall recorded: 680/8 (210 overs) by New Zealand vs India
- Lowest overall record: 42/10 by New Zealand vs Australia (39 Overs)
- The highest score followed: 277/3 (74.5 overs) Pakistan vs New Zealand
- The lowest score defended: 64/10 (27.3 overs) England vs New Zealand
