Duffys Five-Wicket Haul, New Zealand Lead by 96 Runs

On the second day of the first Test against New Zealand, West Indies batter Shai Hope showcased true patience and courage. Despite battling an eye infection, Hope batted with sunglasses on but did not let it affect his confidence at the crease. He scored a half-century against New Zealand, helping stabilize the West Indies innings.

West Indies were bowled out for 167 in their first innings. Hope’s 56, combined with Tagenarine Chanderpaul’s 52, formed a 90-run partnership that rescued the team from early trouble. By the end of the day, however, New Zealand held a 96-run lead.

In the latter part of the West Indies innings, New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy dismantled the tail, taking the last four wickets for just 10 runs. Duffy finished with five wickets, marking his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Matt Henry also played a crucial role, claiming three important wickets to keep his team in control.

New Zealand began their second innings under fading light and challenging bowling conditions. They reached 32 without loss, with Tom Latham unbeaten on 14 and Devon Conway on 15. In their first innings, the Kiwis had posted 231 runs.

The patient partnership between Hope and Chanderpaul, combined with New Zealand’s aggressive bowling and the slow pace of the game, reflected the excitement, restraint, and mental resilience that Test cricket embodies. West Indies batters tried their best to stay in the match and put up a fight.