The second Test will take place from (December 10-14) starting at 10am local time (3.30am IST) at a venue famous for the gale-force winds, lateral movement and real bounce that traditionally tilts matches towards the seams and makes early batting a stern test.
The conditions of the basin reserve favor mariners
Fast bowlers at the Basin Reserve have long enjoyed success, averaging in the mid-twenties, with the new ball often determining the direction of the Test within the opening hour. Gusty Wellington winds, a feature of the ground, can improve swing, while off-field cloudy spells usually provide sustained assistance.
Spinners tend to only influence the game from day three onwards, once footprints emerge, but the largely dry weather forecast with cloud patches suggests that seamers will once again be central to this match.
New Zealand is looking for redemption after the disappointment of Christchurch
The hosts dominated significant parts of the first Test but saw victory slip away due to missed opportunities, including missed catches and misjudged reviews. Captain Tom Latham will demand sharper execution in Wellington as his side look to turn control into a series victory.
With batting stability from Kane Williamson, Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell, and all-round support from Rachin Ravindra and Michael Bracewell, New Zealand’s top spot seems settled. The biggest challenge lies in the bowling department, where injuries to senior pacers have left the attack thin.
The responsibility will lie with the trio Jacob DuffyBlair Tickner and young fast Kristian Clarke, who will all enjoy the seam-friendly Basin Reserve circuit. Their ability to strike early could determine whether New Zealand can maintain their dominance from the start.
West Indies are eyeing a rare victory in the away series
The visitors arrive in Wellington buoyed by their historic escape in Christchurch – their highest fourth-innings total and one of the most determined defensive performances in Test history. Greaves’ double hundred and Roach’s stoic hitting underlined the team’s resilience and revived belief in the build-up to the decider.
West Indies also took confidence from Shai Hope’s authoritative 140 in the first innings, which provided stability at No. 3. Their bowling group, with a lively pace attack complemented by Jomel Warrican’s left-arm spin, created multiple chances in the first Test and are expected to remain competitive on a surface that suits their strengths.
However, captain Roston Chase will push for improved starts from the top order to give the bowlers runs to defend – something that could tilt the momentum in their direction if early wickets fall.
Also READ: Key players ruled out as New Zealand name selection for second Test against West Indies
Basin Reserve test statistics and records
- Total number of matches: 72
- Matches won first: 17
- Matches won first in bowling: 29
- Average score in the first innings: 314
- Average score in the 2nd innings: 307
- Average score in the 3rd innings: 251
- Average score in the 4th innings: 142
- Highest total recorded: 680/8 (210 Overs) by New Zealand vs India
- Lowest total recorded: 42/10 (39 Overs) By New Zealand vs Australia
- Highest score chased: 277/3 (74.5 Overs) By Pakistan vs New Zealand
- Lowest score defended: 64/10 (27.3 overs) by England vs New Zealand
Also READ: NZ vs WI – Fans go wild as Justin Greaves’ stunning double ton leads West Indies to historic draw in first Test against New Zealand
#2nd #Test #Key #stats #records #Wellingtons #Basin #Reserve