Keep calm, Kraigg’s there, say battling WI

WELLINGTON: The West Indies put their faith in Kraigg Brathwaite to save the first Test against New Zealand as the gritty opener pulled the tourists back into the match here on Sunday.
They had started their second innings with a 386-run deficit. By stumps, it had been reduced to 172.Opener Brathwaite, with a seventh century in his sights, was on 79 with Shai Hope on 21.
The only wickets on day three were the West Indies’ Keith Powell (40) and Shimron Hetmyer (66) after New Zealand resumed the day at 447 for nine and declared at 520, still with a wicket in hand, and with debutant Tom Blundell unbeaten on 107.
Hetmyer believed that as long as the opener remained at the crease the West Indies were confident of saving the Test. “He is one of the most important batsmen in the team as of now. It feels better, it gives us drive to know that there is Kraigg there so you can be free at your end to play shots,” 20-year-old Hetmyer said.
“I am very confident batting with Kraigg because he keeps telling me just be yourself and express yourself and enjoy it as much as you can. To be in this position, 200 plus and only two wickets down, is a very good effort on our behalf.”