New Zealand triumphed over West Indies in the second Test to move 1-0 up in the three-match series, delivering a commanding performance in Wellington.
Dominant bowling from a reshuffled New Zealand attack dismantled the visitors for 128 on day three, setting the stage for a comfortable chase and a nine-wicket win. Jacob Duffy starred with five wickets, marking his second five-wicket haul of the series despite being in only his third Test, while Devon Conway and Kane Williamson guided the hosts to the target of 56 with 28 and 16 not out respectively, after tea.
New Zealand had started the day cautiously, acknowledging the heavy legs that could come with the opening sessions, but they adjusted quickly. Captain Tom Latham praised the team’s resilience, noting that Duffy’s spell, aided by the efforts of their bowling group and substitutes stepping up, sealed the result.
With this victory, New Zealand secures a win in the current World Test Championship cycle for 2025-27 and prevents a potential series defeat, as they head into the final Test in Tauranga next week. The Black Caps previously drew the opener, so a series loss is no longer a threat from here.
West Indies, meanwhile, have endured a tough run, losing six of seven away matches. After showing promise in Christchurch, their batting lineup struggled to convert starts this time around. Captain Roston Chase acknowledged the need for stronger batting performances, while also pointing out that the pitch played more easily for batting than anticipated. There is still one Test remaining, which offers a chance to level the series and reignite motivation for the squad.
The third and deciding Test is scheduled to begin at Bay Oval on December 17, with play set to start at 22:00 GMT.
Key figures: New Zealand – Jacob Duffy 5- with 5 wickets in the innings; Devon Conway 28; Kane Williamson 16*; West Indies – Hope 47; Tickner 4-32 & 128; Hodge 35.
