Black Caps Dominate Day One Against West Indies in Wellington

The Black Caps made a strong start in the second Test against the West Indies in Wellington, dismissing the visitors for just 205 runs on the first day. While the New Zealand bowlers dominated, the day was marred by a significant injury to seamer Blair Tickner, who left the field after suffering a shoulder injury while attempting to save a boundary.

Choosing to bowl first on a green pitch, the Black Caps quickly took control of the match. Tickner struck early, claiming two wickets in the first session. He dismissed Brandon King, who scored 33 runs, and trapped Kavem Hodge for a duck, leaving the West Indies struggling at 61 for 3.

Michael Rae, making his mark in his Test debut, achieved his first wicket by removing opener John Campbell for 44 runs. Despite a resilient knock from Shai Hope, who scored 48 runs, the West Indies found it difficult to build partnerships. Hope’s innings ended when he edged a delivery from Tickner to Kane Williamson, just as he was closing in on a half-century.

Tickner’s performance continued to impress, reaching a total of four wickets before his departure. The West Indies skipper, Roston Chase, fell victim to Tickner as well, playing onto his stumps. Rae claimed another wicket by dismissing Kemar Roach, whose dismissal came courtesy of a straight delivery that hit the stumps.

Glen Phillips joined the attack and quickly made an impact, bowling Tevin Imlach. Unfortunately for the Black Caps, the celebrations were short-lived as Tickner was taken to the hospital for further evaluation of his injury.

The West Indies’ collapse continued as Devon Conway ran out Anderson Phillip and Jacob Duffy dismissed Jayden Seales, leaving the visitors all out shortly before the end of the day’s play.

As the first day concluded, the Black Caps found themselves 181 runs behind with skipper Tom Latham on 7 runs and Conway on 16 runs at stumps. Play will resume tomorrow at 11:00 AM, and the Black Caps will be keen to build on their solid start while hoping for good news regarding Tickner’s injury.