Windies in trouble after Taylor record sets monumental target

Sports

Hamilton: A record-equalling 17th century by Ross Taylor had New Zealand closing in on a series sweep against the West Indies after day three of the second Test in Hamilton today.

The West Indies, set a world-record target of 444 to win, were in trouble at 30 for two by stumps with two full days of play remaining. It was New Zealand's day as they shut down the West Indies for 221 to lead by 152 on the first innings.


New Zealand were 263 for eight when Taylor brought up his hundred and with tailender Tim Southee (not out 22) plundering more boundaries they added a further 28 runs before declaring.

The West Indies first innings folded quickly on the third morning with Trent Boult taking the last two wickets to fall in successive balls.

But he missed out on a hat-trick when the West Indies batted again -- needing a wicket first ball he removed Powell on his third delivery.