Emerging Barbadian fast bowler Johann Layne delivered an impressive performance on the final day of West Indies’ two-day warm-up match against a New Zealand XI at Bert Sutcliffe Oval, Lincoln University. The 22-year-old paceman claimed three wickets for 33 runs, helping restrict the hosts to 264 all out in response to the visitors’ declaration at 346 for five.
The practice encounter concluded in a predictable draw on November 27, but Layne’s post-tea bowling spell particularly stood out, likely earning approval from head coach Daren Sammy and bowling coach Ravi Rampaul. The New Zealand XI faced early trouble at 4-2 after just four overs, losing openers Scott Janett (1) and Jesse Frew (3) to experienced campaigners Kemar Roach (1-55) and Anderson Phillip (1-27).
Layne broke a developing partnership when he dismissed Sam Cassidy for a brisk 28 off 26 deliveries with the score at 45-3. The home team recovered through a substantial 126-run stand between Muhammad Abbas (61) and Cam Paul (91), reaching 144-3 at the tea interval. Following the break, Layne’s double strike in quick succession removed both Abbas and wicketkeeper-batsman Marco Alpe (0), with both caught behind by Tevin Imlach.
The middle-order collapse continued as Paul’s excellent knock ended at 91 when he offered a simple return catch to off-spinner Roston Chase (1-40). Left-arm spinners Kavem Hodge (2-32) and vice-captain Jomel Warrican (2-45) then combined to claim the final four wickets, bowling the New Zealand XI out 82 runs short of the Caribbean side’s total.
Despite the encouraging performance, concerns emerged regarding allrounder Justin Greaves, who required assistance leaving the field after pulling up injured during his fourth over. The West Indies will begin their three-match Test series against New Zealand on November 1 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.