Mitch Hay scores unbeaten 52 on debut as New Zealand reach 200-5 at tea, trailing West Indies by just five runs in the Wellington Test
DEBUTANT Mitch Hay’s unbeaten half-century guided New Zealand to 200 for five at tea on day two of the second Test against the West Indies.
The hosts trailed by just five runs after the West Indies were bowled out for 205 in their first innings at the Basin Reserve.
Hay finished the session unbeaten on 52 from 75 balls, displaying poise in his first Test match innings.
The 25-year-old hit six fours and a six during his composed knock.
He came to the crease at 117 for four after the dismissals of Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway in quick succession after lunch.
Hay and Daryl Mitchell combined for a 73-run partnership for the fifth wicket, with Hay playing the aggressor’s role.
Mitchell fell just before the interval for 25, leaving Glenn Phillips not out on two at the other end.
Earlier, opener Devon Conway batted well for his 60 from 108 balls before edging behind soon after lunch.
Conway and Kane Williamson, who was dismissed for 37 before lunch, had steadied the innings after the early loss of captain Tom Latham.
Williamson hit seven fours in a brisk 46-ball stay, punishing some erratic West Indies bowling.
Conway was given a life on 28 when dropped by Shai Hope at leg slip.
The pair had put on 67 for the second wicket when Anderson Phillip produced an unplayable delivery to bowl Williamson.
In a blow for New Zealand, the team confirmed seam bowler Blair Tickner dislocated his shoulder on day one.
Tickner, who took a career-best 4 for 32 on Tuesday, will not bowl or field again in the match.
He was taken to hospital after the injury and will only bat if absolutely necessary. – AFP
