HAMILTON, New Zealand, Dec 4, 2020 (BSS/AFP) – A majestic double century
from Kane Williamson had New Zealand in a commanding position at 477 for six
at tea on day two of the first Test against the West Indies in Hamilton on
Thursday.
Williamson was unbeaten on 236, his third double century and only six runs
short of his personal best, an unbeaten 242 against Sri Lanka nearly six
years ago.
After New Zealand resumed the day at 243 for two at Seddon Park, the West
Indies picked up two quick wickets, including Ross Taylor for 38, and two
more in the middle session.
But they have not been able to break the unflappable Williamson, who has
selected the balls he wanted to hit and scored with ease all around his home
ground.
He reached his century with a classic push through point for four off a
short delivery from Shannon Gabriel, then 150 punching Roston Chase off the
back foot through cover for three, and passed 200 driving a half-volley from
Kemar Roach to the cover boundary.
Williamson was given out on 222, caught behind off Roach, only to be
recalled when replays showed it was a no-ball.
It was a particularly bad over for Roach, with Williamson smacking two
fours and a six off successive deliveries, peppering different parts of the
boundary with each shot.
Taylor could only add seven to his overnight total before he was caught
behind by Shamarh Brooks who has taken the gloves while regular keeper Shane
Dowrich sits out the day with an injured hand.
Henry Nicholls’ poor run of form continued when he went for seven, while
Tom Blundell supported Williamson for more than 90 minutes before he was out
for 14 and Daryl Mitchell could only add nine.
Kyle Jamieson has restored some solidity to be 35 not out.
Gabriel and Roach have shared the wickets for the West Indies with Gabriel
returning figures of three for 89 while Roach has three for 114.