New Zealand beat West Indies by nine wickets in the second Test in Wellington on Friday to take a 1-0 lead in the series.
Jacob Duffy led the win with figures of 5 for 38. It was his second five wicket haul in just his third Test. West Indies were bowled out for 128 after lunch on day three. New Zealand needed only 56 runs to win.
Devon Conway made 28 and Kane Williamson added 16 as the hosts sealed the result just before tea at the Basin Reserve. Debutant Michael Rae supported well with 3 for 45. Kavem Hodge top scored for West Indies with 35.
The first Test in Christchurch ended in a draw. This result gave New Zealand the edge in the three match series.
Captain Tom Latham praised his young bowling group. Several key bowlers were missing due to injury, but the replacements stepped up.
Zak Foulkes played only his third Test. Blair Tickner featured in his fourth. Rae made his debut. Latham said the effort from the bowlers stood out in a tough week. He admitted the batting was not at its best, but said the bowlers pushed the team well ahead.
West Indies began day three on 32 for 2 and still trailed by 41 runs. They lost wickets at regular gaps and slipped to 98 for 6 by lunch. Any hope of another fightback faded quickly.
New Zealand needed only 9.2 overs after lunch to finish the innings. Justin Greaves fell for 25 after an lbw call off Duffy was reviewed and upheld. The ball would have clipped the top of leg stump.
West Indies captain Roston Chase said the batting was disappointing. He felt the team had a chance early in the day but failed to build on it. He praised the bowlers for keeping them in the game earlier.
On the opening day, West Indies were bowled out for 205. New Zealand replied with 278 for 9 declared.
Brandon King and Hodge started the final day with intent. King made 22 but was run out after a mix up. That moment triggered another slide.
Shai Hope fell soon after. Chase followed as Rae and Duffy struck again. Hodge stayed patient but was out for 35 after Will Young took a fine diving catch at midwicket.
Chase said his batters need to take responsibility. He stressed the need to turn starts into bigger scores and show more resolve at the crease.
The third and final Test will be played in Mount Maunganui starting on Thursday.
