Williamson keeps Kiwis in the hunt

New Zealand

Rain delayed the start of the third day of the West Indies and New Zealand's Test series decider at the Kensington Oval on Saturday, but the Black Caps held steady once the action got under way.

Rain delayed the start of the third day of the West Indies and New Zealand's Test series decider at the Kensington Oval on Saturday, but the Black Caps held steady once the action got under way.

At the close of play on day three, the Kiwis held a lead of 99 thanks to Kane Williamson's unbeaten half century, though they were three wickets down for 123. The day also saw the Windies lose eight wickets.

Play began with the hosts on 169 for two, chasing the 293 all out the New Zealanders posted on day one. Kirk Edwards was on 42 and soon reached his half century, but was out for 58 to Tim Southee.

Neil Wagner was the main wicket taker on the day though, bagging Darren Bravo and Shivnarine Chanderpaul before they could get settled, and later also removed Suleiman Benn as the tail failed to wag.

Aside from the top order half tons, Dinesh Ramdin added 45 and Jason Holder 38, allowing the Windies to at least take a small lead, though they were all out for 317 and that brought on the tea break.

As such, the Kiwis batted quite quickly in the evening, scoring their 123 at nearly four to the over. But they were somewhat careless with their wickets, as opener Tom Latham was out for a duck and Hamish Rutherford for 19.

With Williamson going string at three, Ross Taylor could only make six runs, leaving skipper Brendon McCullum to stand with the younger batsman till the end of play. The home pacemen were looking dangerous though, making day four an exciting prospect.

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