Wagon : New Zealand v West Indies at Dunedin

It will be hard work for the quicker bowlers, especially when the Kookaburra stops swinging

after 20 overs (if it has even done it for that long).

Swing is not really a natural attribute for any of the West Indies bowlers.

That factor gives New Zealand an early headstart.

Roach's absence is a significant blow which robs the attack of an incisive weapon and a talisman.

For all of Tino Best's bluster, his results are rarely as compelling as Roach's.

Shannon Gabriel, who impressed on his Test debut at Lord's in 2012 before succumbing to injury,

and Saluting Soldier Cottrell remain raw and liable to release any pressure created :

while the debate continues around Darren Sammy's role. 

Led by Tim Southee and Trent Boult, backed up by the tireless Neil Wagner and Doug Bracewell

will be eager to exploit a West Indies top order where footwork is not always to the fore;

do not be surprised to see Samuels and Shivnarine Chanderpaul together at :

50 for 3.... :-[

Any team, playing a tour match with more opposition players, bowling action investigation, visa crisis, continued discussions about the Captain do not bode well for a successful tour.

Key players missing is never good for prospects but at least they would have had some stern preparations against India, which should help?

I think this team, irrespective of who are playing, is going through the motions and that suggests to me, change have to be afoot.

I wish the team well but this New Zealand team is not the same one, mentally, they met at home.

Well that's pretty much settled then *sigh*

I hope they can play Shilly and instead of Scammy they could easily fit in Deo in there. Oh well.

Head colds, wrong time zone, lacking sleep, green top, missing players, suspect actions,. if the Windies last three days it could be classed as a victory.

Chance is an Obeah man living in Plaisance !