Day 2 of the second Test between New Zealand and the West Indies saw a mixed bag of performances. After being dismissed for just 205 on Day 1, the West Indies were in a precarious position, trailing by 73 runs. On Day 2, New Zealand’s bowlers kept the pressure on, and the visitors faced another challenging period in their second innings.

West Indies managed to score just 32/2 by the close of play, with Brandon King (15 not out) and Kavem Hodge (3 not out) at the crease, still trailing by 41 runs. With several wickets falling cheaply, the West Indies need a strong partnership in the coming days to stay in the match. New Zealand, on the other hand, will aim to press their advantage and make inroads early on Day 3. The day belonged to New Zealand’s disciplined attack, led by Michael Rae, who earlier claimed three crucial wickets in the West Indies’ first innings.

West Indies struggle in second innings on Day 2 of Wellington Test

West Indies faced another collapse in their second innings, ending Day 2 at 32/2 after 10 overs. New Zealand’s bowlers, having already dismissed the West Indies for 205 in their first innings, kept up the pressure with disciplined bowling on Day 2. Michael Rae and Zak Foulkes had important breakthroughs, dismissing John Campbell (14) and Anderson Phillip (0) to leave the West Indies reeling at 25/2. The West Indies batters, having failed to build partnerships, are now facing a challenging situation with a steep task ahead. The hosts will look to exploit the conditions further and break the visitors’ resistance early on Day 3. Despite some resistance from Brandon King and Kavem Hodge, the West Indies have yet to gain momentum, leaving New Zealand in a strong position.

New Zealand has been brilliant on Day 2 👏

– After taking the lead in the first innings, New Zealand picks 2 early wickets and ends the day on a positive note 🏏#Cricket #NZvWI pic.twitter.com/azTIZhAwfM

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 11, 2025

Also READ: NZ vs WI: New Zealand Cricket provides big update on Blair Tickner’s injury

New Zealand’s solid first innings lead sets the tone 

Earlier, after a solid performance in their first innings, New Zealand will be confident heading into Day 3. New Zealand posted a total of 278 in their first innings, with Devon Conway’s 60 and Mitchell Hay’s 61 playing pivotal roles. The team was also supported by Kane Williamson (37) and Daryl Mitchell (25), but some lower-order wickets stopped New Zealand from posting an even bigger total.

Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales were the standout bowlers for the West Indies, taking 2 and 1 wickets, respectively. Despite regular breakthroughs, New Zealand’s innings was built around solid contributions from the top and middle order. With the West Indies still trailing by 41 runs, New Zealand will aim to take full advantage of their first innings lead and push for an early breakthrough in the West Indies’ second innings on Day 3. Their bowlers are likely to be key in this phase, as New Zealand looks to extend their lead and push for victory.

Solid knocks from Mitchell Hay and Devon Conway in the 1st innings for New Zealand 👏#NZvsWI pic.twitter.com/iKj0Wf1lI9

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 11, 2025

Also READ: EXPLAINED: Why Harry Brook won’t feature in the IPL 2026 mini-auction

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.