NZ vs WI Match Analysis
The cricketing caravan moves to the iconic Basin Reserve in Wellington for the decisive 2nd Test of the West Indies tour of New Zealand. This venue is renowned for its gusty winds and open grassy banks, creating a unique atmosphere that tests the mental fortitude of touring sides.
New Zealand, led by Tom Latham, enters this match with their trademark adaptability. As a unit, they prioritize collective goals over individual brilliance, a trait that makes them incredibly difficult to beat in home conditions.
The West Indies, under the leadership of Roston Chase, arrive in Wellington with a point to prove. Their primary strength lies in their unpredictability and a squad packed with all-rounders, which provides exceptional balance, even if their recent focus has been heavily skewed toward T20 cricket.
New Zealand vs West Indies Team Preview & Squads
New Zealand
Tom Latham captains a side that prides itself on collaboration and resilience. As an opener and leader, Latham carries the burden of setting the tone, ensuring the “Black Caps” navigate the treacherous early movement at the Basin Reserve.
NZ batting depth is formidable, anchored by the legendary Kane Williamson, whose technical perfection is tailor-made for Test cricket. Alongside him, the likes of Devon Conway and rising star Rachin Ravindra provide a blend of stability and aggression. Michael Bracewell adds crucial runs down the order, ensuring that the team can post commanding totals even if the top order experiences a wobble against the new ball.
On the bowling front, Jacob Duffy and Matt Henry will likely share the workload, utilizing the Wellington wind to generate swing. The team relies on key all-rounders like Mitchell Santner and Bracewell to hold up an end while the pacers attack.
Coming off a draw in Christchurch, NZ will feel slightly aggrieved. They posted scores of 231 and declared at 466/8, setting a massive target. Yet, despite their adaptability, they couldn’t break the West Indies’ resolve in the fourth innings. They will treat this match as a must-win to assert their dominance at home.
New Zealand Squads
New Zealand
Tom Latham (C), Tom Blundell (WK), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson, Will Young
West Indies
Roston Chase takes the reins of a team that is often described as mercurial. Chase’s leadership will be tested as he tries to manage a group that excels in power-hitting but often lacks the patience required for five-day cricket.
WI batting lineup is a mix of flair and grit, though often criticized for lacking technical application in longer formats. However, Justin Greaves silenced critics with a monumental 202* in the last match, proving that this lineup can bat time when required. Shai Hope and Alick Athanaze must now step up to support Greaves.
Bowling remains a challenge, but the presence of veteran Kemar Roach provides immense experience. Roach, listed as a key all-rounder in this setup, brings fight with both ball and bat. The attack will need to be disciplined to contain Williamson and Latham, avoiding the loose deliveries that plague them due to a lack of consistent domestic red-ball exposure.
The WI are buzzing after their escape in Christchurch. Chasing a theoretical 531, they finished on 457/6, a score that defied all statistical probability for a team struggling with “player inconsistency.” That draw has given them a lifeline, and they will look to exploit any cracks in New Zealand’s armor.
West Indies Squads
West Indies
Roston Chase (C), Jomel Warrican, Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves (WK), Kavem Hodge, Shai Hope (WK), Tevin Imlach, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Ojay Shields
Match Details | |
Match | New Zealand vs West Indies | 2nd Test | West Indies tour of New Zealand 2025 |
Date | 10/12/2025 (Wednesday) |
Time | BDT 4:00 AM / PKT 3:00 AM / INR 3:30 AM |
Format | Test |
Venue | Basin Reserve, Wellington |
Recent performance | New Zealand – L W W W D West Indies – L L L L D |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the NZ vs WI Live Stream on Sports Live Hub(SLH) |
NZ vs WI Outfield Report
Basin Reserve, Wellington
The pitch at the Basin Reserve is legendary for offering significant assistance to seam bowlers on the first two days. The surface usually carries a green tinge, and coupled with the notorious Wellington wind, swing bowlers like Jacob Duffy and Kemar Roach will be licking their lips. Batters will need to play late and leave well to survive the early sessions.
Weather conditions in Wellington are expected to be cool and breezy, typical for early December. The “wind factor” is not just a cliché here; it actively affects how the ball moves in the air, often aiding the bowler running into the wind.
Regarding strategies, the Powerplay (or rather, the new ball phase) will be where the game is won or lost. Fielding sides will employ aggressive slip cordons. If the West Indies can survive the first 20 overs without losing more than one wicket, their natural “power-hitting” game could allow them to score quickly against an older ball, counter-attacking New Zealand’s aggressive fields.
New Zealand vs West Indies Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches
The most recent encounter in Christchurch ended in a high-scoring draw, breaking the trend of New Zealand dominance at home. Historically, New Zealand has held the upper hand in their own backyard.
NZ vs WI Prediction
Event | New Zealand | West Indies |
Toss Winner | – | West Indies |
Player of the Match | Kane Williamson | – |
Top Run Scorer | Kane Williamson | Justin Greaves |
Top Wicket Taker | Jacob Duffy | Kemar Roach |
Most Sixes | Daryl Mitchell | Roston Chase |
Predicted Score | 1st Innings: 350+ | 1st Innings: 330+ |
Win Probability | 53% | 47% |
According to cricket analysts New Zealand have a 53% chance of Winning?
Disclaimer: This cricket prediction reflects the author’s personal insights and analysis. We encourage readers to review the points shared and draw their own conclusions.
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