The West Indies vs New Zealand Test series 2025 heads into a crucial phase with the 2nd Test, following an absorbing opening match that saw New Zealand take the early lead in the series. The result of the 1st Test exposed key areas for West Indies to address, particularly consistency with the bat and execution in pressure moments, while also highlighting New Zealand’s trademark discipline and composure in red-ball cricket. With momentum firmly on New Zealand’s side, the hosts now face a must-win situation to keep the series alive. For New Zealand, the second Test presents an opportunity to consolidate their advantage and potentially seal the series, making this encounter high-stakes for both teams in terms of confidence, rankings, and ICC World Test Championship points.
Live Streaming Info
Fans can watch WI vs NZ live on Star Sports and Jio Hotstar (India), Ten Sports (Pakistan), Fox Sports (Australia), and Willow TV (USA). Match Start Time: 1:30 PM IST / 8:00 AM GMT / 4:30 AM EST.
Team Analysis
West Indies enter the 2nd Test under pressure to respond after the setback in the opening match. Their batting unit will be the primary focus, with the top order needing to show greater application and patience. Long partnerships at the top are essential to blunt New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack and allow the middle order to build substantial innings. The West Indies middle order has the potential to add runs quickly, but converting starts into match-defining scores remains a key challenge.
In bowling, the home side’s pace attack continues to be their biggest strength. Familiar conditions, bounce, and lateral movement offer them a chance to trouble New Zealand’s batters, especially with the new ball. Improved fielding intensity and better use of reviews will also be crucial if West Indies are to shift momentum in their favor.
New Zealand, buoyed by their 1st Test victory, will aim to maintain their structured and methodical approach. Their batting lineup demonstrated resilience and clarity in shot selection in the opening match, and they will look to replicate that performance. The top order’s ability to absorb pressure sets the platform for the middle order to capitalize, particularly against an aggressive pace attack. New Zealand’s bowling unit, known for accuracy and relentless consistency, will again focus on building pressure through tight lines and lengths rather than searching for magic deliveries. Their ability to remain patient across long spells often proves decisive in Test cricket. Strong fielding and smart captaincy further enhance their control during crucial sessions.
For West Indies, the key lies in winning sessions rather than chasing quick results. Building pressure gradually, both with bat and ball, will be vital. For New Zealand, sustaining intensity and avoiding complacency after the 1st Test success will determine whether they can dominate the series.
Match Insights & Conclusion
The pitch for the 2nd Test is expected to provide a balanced contest between bat and ball. Early on, seamers are likely to find movement, particularly with the new ball, while batters who show patience and sound technique can be rewarded with runs. As the match progresses, uneven bounce and wear may come into play, bringing spinners and reverse swing into the equation. Teams that manage workloads smartly and adapt their strategies session by session will hold the advantage.
With New Zealand leading the series, the 2nd Test shapes up as a defining encounter. West Indies will be desperate to bounce back, draw confidence from home conditions, and force the series into a decider. New Zealand, meanwhile, will look to press home their advantage and assert their dominance with another composed performance. Expect a competitive, hard-fought Test match where discipline, mental resilience, and execution in key moments will ultimately decide the outcome.
