5 Talking points from New Zealand's innings win over West Indies

Srihari
Wagner and Blundell were the heroes for the hosts
Wagner and Blundell were the heroes for the hosts

Replacements work wonders for the hosts

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Henry proved to be a valuable addition to the pace attack
Henry proved to be a valuable addition to the pace attack

Coming into the first Test of the home summer, New Zealand were rocked by injuries to a couple of their key players. Tim Southee, the leader of the bowling attack was ruled out due to injury while BJ Watling wasn't fit to take part either. In their place came Matt Henry and Tom Blundell and both players played their part in ensuring a comfortable victory for the Black Caps to kickstart their summer.

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Although Henry went wicketless in the first innings when Wagner wreaked havoc, he came back with a bang in the second innings. Not only did he break the crucial opening partnership but also got rid of the well-set Shimron Hetmyer and the dangerous Roston Chase.

The 27-year-old wicketkeeper, Tom Blundell walked out to bat when New Zealand were already in a strong position. By the time he finished, not only did he help the hosts take a massive lead but also became the first NZ keeper to score a century on Test debut. The resilience and determination he showed while getting close to his hundred and the attacking intent he showed earlier in the innings certainly bodes well for the hosts.

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Edited by Srihari
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