Jones century leads Auckland's day
Riding on their captain Richard Jones' unbeaten 186, Auckland finished the day on a commanding 359 for 2 after electing to bat
Cricinfo staff
05-Dec-2008
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The West Indians had a rough start to their New Zealand tour, Auckland completely dominating day one of their three-day match at the Eden Park Outer Oval. Riding on captain Richard Jones' unbeaten 186, Auckland finished the day on a commanding 359 for 2 after electing to bat.
The West Indians enjoyed a good beginning after drizzle forced a delayed start, Fidel Edwards dismissing Martin Guptill for 10, edging to slip. But Jones, in partnership with left-handed opener Tim McIntosh, crafted a 223-run stand that deflated the attack. After helping Auckland to 134 for 1 at lunch, Jones moved briskly to his century. McIntosh fell for 78 shortly before tea, taking his tally for the summer to 418 runs at 69.00, but Jones found another able ally in Reece Young, on 56 at stumps. The two have added 125 so far.
Jones, who has played one Test and five ODIs for New Zealand, hit 25 fours and three sixes in his 13th first-class century. Playing in his 108th match, the 35-year-old Jones will resume day two just two runs short of equalling his personal best of 188.
The West Indians will resume hoping for a better showing from their bowlers. First Test hopefuls Kemar Roach and Sulieman Benn went wicketless, while Edwards was expensive. Fast bowler Lionel Baker, who impressed in a 3-0 ODI loss to Pakistan last month, collected McIntosh's wicket.
They will expect more from their batsmen on a pitch where domestic cricketers have enjoyed batting this season. Last week's domestic State Championship match between Auckland and Wellington yielded 974 runs for only 12 wickets in a rain-reduced affair.
This fixture is the only practice match for the tourists ahead of the first of two Tests against New Zealand, starting in Dunedin next Thursday.