Windies lads poised for victory

LINCOLN – West Indies were in an excellent position to push for a win on today’s final day after their bowlers earned them a healthy first innings lead on the second day of their three-day match against New Zealand “A” yesterday.

Off-spinner Roston Chase (2-7) and left-arm seamer Raymon Reifer (2-27) both finished with two wickets apiece, while the pace attack put in a solid shift, as New Zealand “A” were turned over for 237 in their first innings at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval.

Todd Astle, batting at number eight, stroked an aggressive top score of 68 while Tim Bruce gathered 46, Beil Broom, 27, and captain Tom Latham, 24.

In their second turn at the crease, West Indies were 53 for two – an overall lead of 267 runs – with opener Kraigg Brathwaite unbeaten on 33.

Following the visitors’ declaration at their overnight 451 for nine, Test batsman Jeet Raval perished cheaply in the fourth over of the morning – edging seamer Kemar Roach to captain Jason Holder at third slip for one to leave the hosts on seven for one

Captain Tom Latham also failed to secure time at the crease ahead of the opening Test, falling for 24 off 55 deliveries after pulling seamer Holder to Shimron Hetmyer at square leg.

Veteran first class batsman Neil Broom chipped in with 27 off 46 balls in a 34-run fourth wicket stand with Bruce, but was one of three quick wickets to fall for 25 runs as the hosts slipped to 114 for six.

Astle and Bruce came to their side’s rescue, however, putting on 64 for the seventh wicket to prop up the innings.

The right-handed Astle stroked ten fours and a six in an 81-ball knock, while Bruce faced 71 balls and counted seven fours.

When Bruce fell to speedster Shannon Gabriel, Astle added a further 46 for the eighth wicket with Logan van Beek (21) before Chase wiped out the tail quickly. (CMC)