Jacob Duffy’s maiden five-wicket haul put New Zealand firmly in control on Day 2 of the first Test against West Indies in Christchurch. New Zealand lead by 96 runs at stumps, having dismissed the visitors for 167 in reply to their own first-innings total of 231.
Duffy dismantled the middle and lower order, finishing with figures of 5-34, while Matt Henry supported with a three-for. Shai Hope (56) and Tagenarine Chanderpaul (52) were the only batters to show resistance for West Indies, as four other wickets fell cheaply. New Zealand extended their advantage with 32 without loss in the second innings.
West Indies started brightly with early dismissals of Zak Foulkes and John Campbell, but the scoreboard soon stagnated. Hope and Chanderpaul rebuilt with a 90-run stand, surviving dropped catches and extras. Hope reached his fifty despite batting in sunglasses due to an eye infection, while Chanderpaul relied on his unhurried style to frustrate the bowlers.
Duffy turned the tide after lunch, first breaking the partnership by dismissing Hope and then running through the lower order. Henry added crucial breakthroughs, including a double-strike over that left West Indies reeling at 106 for 5. After a short rain interruption, Duffy finished off the innings with four quick wickets, including a caught-and-bowled and a stumping.
New Zealand’s seam attack showcased precision and depth, keeping the visitors under pressure throughout. With Conway and Latham unbeaten at stumps, the hosts are well-placed to push for a commanding first-innings lead on Day 3.
