New Zealand Take Control on Day One, Blair Tickner Injured

ISLAMABAD: On the first day of the second Test against West Indies at Basin Reserve, New Zealand dismissed the visitors for 205 runs, establishing a strong grip on the match. However, their already weakened bowling line suffered another blow when fast bowler Blair Tickner injured his shoulder while fielding and was taken to the hospital.

Winning the toss, New Zealand elected to bowl first. West Indies got off to a promising start with openers John Campbell and Brandon King putting together a 66-run partnership, but New Zealand’s bowlers soon turned the game around.

Read more: First Test Between New Zealand and West Indies Ends in Draw

Tickner, returning to Test cricket after nearly three years, bowled brilliantly, taking 4 wickets for 32 runs. Unfortunately, while attempting to stop a boundary, he injured his left shoulder and had to leave the field. Team management confirmed that his participation in the rest of the match is doubtful.

Debutant Michael Rae, 30, also impressed, taking 3 wickets for 67 runs, playing a key role in breaking down the West Indies batting lineup.

For West Indies, Shai Hope was the top scorer with 48 runs, while captain Roston Chase contributed 29 runs. Despite a solid start, the last seven wickets fell for just 52 runs, giving New Zealand a significant advantage.

In reply, New Zealand reached 24 runs without loss, with Devon Conway on 16 and Tom Latham unbeaten on 7. The team will aim to reduce the 181-run deficit further on the second day of the match.