Wagner: Not a lot of assistance in pitch

Cricket365
June 28, 2014

New Zealand's Neil Wagner conceded the Kensington Oval in Barbados is not benefiting the fast bowlers as much as anticipated, as the West Indies climbed to a promising score on day two of the third and final Test.

New Zealand's Neil Wagner conceded the Kensington Oval is not benefiting the fast bowlers as much as anticipated, as the West Indies climbed to a promising score on day two of the third and final Test.

All out for 293 on day one, the Black Caps restricted the Windies to 169 for two on Saturday, which saw just 33 overs and two deliveries amid inclement weather in Bridgetown, Barbados.

"There's not a lot of assistance in the pitch. I think it's one of those grounds where a lot of boundaries get scored. It's a quick outfield with small boundaries, so it can get a little away from you. There is a lot of value for shots. Our job is to just try and eliminate that and build a bit of pressure. As soon as we can do that, we can try to get a couple of quick wickets," said Wagner.

"West Indies feed on the bowling like today and are confident in themselves. But we also know that they are the kind of team that crumble when they lose a couple of quick wickets, so we're always hopeful of that. So for us, it's just a matter of being patient and executing our plans for a longer period of time."

Recalled to the XI ahead of leg-spinner Ish Sodhi, left-arm seamer Wagner enjoyed the key dismissal of half-centurion Kraigg Brathwaite, who was later complemented by fellow right-hander Kirk Edwards. Spinner Mark Craig, meanwhile, removed Gayle for 42.

"It was quite good to break the partnership, and obviously, to squeeze the next batters coming in. They got away a bit this morning and batted quite well, so it wasn't really an ideal start for us. We just need to focus on what we can do and come in and change," added Wagner.

"Obviously, the rain coming in is disappointing. We felt just before lunch and after lunch, we were putting a bit of pressure. If we had got another one or two wickets, we would have been in with a bit of a chance. It's a bit disappointing, but we can't control the weather."