NZ take 1-0 lead with dominant 9-wicket win over WI:Conway-Williamson chase down 56 runs in 10 overs in Wellington Test; Jacob Duffy awarded POTM

New Zealand started the Test series in style, defeating the West Indies by 9 wickets to take a 1-0 lead. The hosts were in control from Day 1 and never allowed the visitors to recover. With disciplined bowling, steady batting, and complete command over the match situation and sealed a comfortable victory at home. The West Indies showed moments of promise, especially with the opening partnerships in both innings, but they could not maintain the momentum. New Zealand’s bowlers kept creating pressure, which forced regular collapses for the visitors. By the third day, the match had clearly slipped out of West Indies’ hands, allowing the Kiwis to chase a small target with ease. Debutants and returning players made a big impact for New Zealand, helping the hosts dominate throughout all three days of the Test. NZ bowlers take charge early, WI all-out for 205 runs In the first innings, New Zealand’s fast bowlers restricted the West Indies to just 205. Blair Tickner, returning to Test cricket, bowled superbly before a shoulder injury forced him off. Debutant Michael Rae impressed with three important wickets, adding to the team’s strong start. Despite a positive beginning from openers John Campbell and Brandon King, the West Indies’ batting fell apart quickly. Jacob Duffy, who later won Player of the Match, played a key role with his accuracy and discipline. Conway-Mitchell helped build a strong lead for NZ New Zealand strengthened their position on Day 2 with the bat. Devon Conway led the charge with a well-made 60, while debutant Mitchell Hay scored an excellent 61 on his Test debut. Their knocks helped the Kiwis reach 278 and gain a 73-run lead. With the ball again, New Zealand struck early in the West Indies’ second innings, reducing them to 32/2 by stumps. The visitors were already 41 runs behind, leaving them under pressure going into Day 3. West Indies batting collapse, Duffy bags five-wicket haul Day 3 brought more trouble for the West Indies. They lost Brandon King and Shai Hope early, slipping to 59/4 and still trailing by 14 runs. Although Kavem Hodge and Justin Greaves tried to resist, the innings never gained momentum. Jacob Duffy’s five-wicket haul was crucial in bowling out the visitors cheaply and setting New Zealand a small target of just 53 runs. Conway-Williamson chased down 56 runs in 10 overs In the final innings, openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway gave New Zealand a controlled start. After Latham’s dismissal, Kane Williamson joined Conway and guided the team home without any difficulty. Devon Conway and Kane Williamson chased down 56 runs in 10 overs.