Hamilton: Ross Taylor’s (107 n o, 198b, 11×4) record-equalling Test century helped New Zealand close in on a series whitewash as they set a monumental 444-run target for the West Indies with a couple of days left in the second Test here. In reply, the Windies were already reduced to 30 for two at stumps on the third day with Kraig Brathwaite (13 batting) and Shai Hope (one batting) at the crease.
The Black Caps started the day brightly as Trent Boult (4/73) polished off the Windies tail claiming the last two wickets off successive balls to fold the visitors, who managed to add only six runs to their overnight score of 215/8.
With a first innings lead of 152, the hosts started on a disastrous note losing both the openers cheaply. Skipper Kane Williamson (54, 64b, 8×4) and Ross Taylor steadied the ship with a 58-run partnership for the third wicket before the former was bowled by Miguel Cummins (3/69).
After the dismissal of Williamson, the Kiwis lost wickets at regular intervals. However, it was Taylor who propped the hosts to 291 for eight before they declared their innings. Tayor made a couple of valuable stands – 50 runs for the fifth wicket with Mitchell Santner () before a 51-run stand with Colin de Grandhomme ().
The 33-year-old Taylor reached his 17th ton with a boundary off Raymon Reifer and became the joint highest centurion for New Zealand in Tests joining late Martin Crowe and Williamson.
Brief scores: New Zealand 373 and 291/8 decl (Ross Taylor 107 n o, Kane Williamson 54; Miguel Cummins 3/69); West Indies 221 and 30/2 (Shimron Hatmyer 15). Match to continue.
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