New Zealand and West Indies arrive in Wellington with everything still to play for. The first Test in Christchurch ended in a draw, largely thanks to a stubborn West Indies fightback led by Justin Greaves, whose unbeaten 202 held the Black Caps at bay. Shai Hope also reached a maiden Test hundred in that match, and Kemar Roach contributed an unbeaten 58 down the order.
The hosts are short of fast-bowling options. Matt Henry, Nathan Smith and Mitchell Santner are all carrying injuries, so the attack is being reshuffled. Uncapped quicks Michael Rae and Jacob Duffy are in contention alongside Blair Tickner and Zak Foulkes, with Rachin Ravindra offering a spin option. The batting leans on Tom Latham, Kane Williamson, who made 52 in the first innings, and Daryl Mitchell. Glenn Phillips comes back into the middle order after strong domestic form.
West Indies, captained by Roston Chase, remain unbeaten on the tour. Their pace group of Jayden Seales, Anderson Phillip and Roach will look for early breakthroughs, with debutant Ojay Shields and spinner Jomel Warrican in support. Much may depend on whether openers John Campbell and Tagenarine Chanderpaul can give the innings a solid start. Home conditions favouring disciplined lines and swing tilt our preview slightly towards New Zealand.
