West Indies keep bowling options open

Wellington - The West Indies will leave all their selection options open before naming their XI for the decisive second and final Test against New Zealand, starting at the Basin Reserve here on Boxing Day (5 p.m. Christmas Day, East Caribbean time). They have to.

They are so unsettled they have to seriously consider the structure of their bowling and the places of at least two of those who played in the first Test.

On his return to the Test team for the first time since his seven-wicket performance against South Africa in Durban almost a year ago, Franklyn Rose went wicketless in his 33 overs and seldom troubled the New Zealanders.

Merv Dillon used the new ball effectively in the opening match against New Zealand 'A' and was only ruled out of the first Test after turning his knee at practice. He is almost certain to return.

Reon King was the fastest and most impressive of the West Indies bowlers in Hamilton and should retain his place.

The decision on whether the attack returns to the time-tried formula of all-pace will be based on a reading of conditions on the morning of the match.

If four fast bowlers are used, Rose and Pedro Collins could contest the final place - and the variety the left-arm Collins would bring would be in his favour.

Ricardo Powell, the swashbuckling 21-year-old right-hander, will also be under review.

The steadier Daren Ganga, who scored an unbeaten 100 against Auckland in the match preceding the Test, would seem a better choice.