Neesham moves on after missing ton

Cricket365
June 27, 2014

All-rounder Jimmy Neesham lamented an inability to convert a promising half-ton into a three-figure vigil, as New Zealand slipped to a disappointing total on day one of the third and final Test against the West Indies in Bridgetown.

Neesham, who scored a fine century in the series opener earlier this month, climbed to 78 on Thursday before an inadequate piece of communication with tail-ender Mark Craig resulted in a run-out.

"Anytime you get to the 60s or 70s, you start looking at that mark. It was a little bit disappointing, the mix-up between me and Mark, called at the same time and there was a little bit of miscommunication going on but I'll take that on my shoulders. It was probably my call. It was a little bit disappointing to get out that way, but I think you'd move and get on with the rest of the game," said Neesham.

The 23-year-old Neesham's success – and complementary innings from the talented Kan Williamson, former captain Ross Taylor and Craig pushed the Black Caps to 293 all out. Host spinner Sulieman Benn and fast bowler Kemar Roach, meanwhile, secured five and four wickets respectively.

"I think we were a bit short. I think if we had got north of anywhere between 320-330 , it would would have been a really good effort. "So to fall 20 or 30 short is a little bit disappointing but there's a lot in it for the bowlers and if we get a couple out early, it will be interesting," added Neesham.

The home side will resume on 32 without loss on Friday, with the left-handed Chris Gayle on 18 and fellow opener Kraigg Brathwaite unbeaten on 11 at the Kensington Oval.