Hamilton: The West Indies are focussed on surviving Neil Wagner’s short-ball barrages as they look to square the series against New Zealand in the second and final Test starting in Hamilton on Saturday. The Caribbean visitors have historically been known for their own fast, intimidatory bowling, but were troubled by Wagner’s rising deliveries in the first Test — primarily from his short ball that angles in towards the rib cage. Wagner was New Zealand’s chief destroyer in Wellington with seven wickets in the first innings and nine for the match, which the hosts won by an innings and 67 runs.
“It’s key to know what you want to do (against Wagner). Whether you’re going to take it on or don’t take it on,” said Kraigg Brathwaite, the stand-in skipper after Jason Holder was suspended for a Test and fined for a slow over rate in Wellington. “We’re ready and had a good practice session yesterday and also today and we’re looking forward to the challenge.” Brathwaite, who top scored for the West Indies with 91 in their much improved second innings in Wellington, said they had settled on an uncomplicated plan to try to save the series.
“Stick to the basics. You don’t have to over-complicate it. Get a big first innings total, and obviously (it) will help us go far in the game a lot better.” New Zealand have been boosted by the confirmed return of swing bowler Tim Southee, who missed the first Test for the birth of his second child. But despite the lop-sided result in the first Test, New Zealand are braced for a West Indies fightback.
