In the second test New Zealand set the toughest target for the host. As West Indies lost couple of wicket for just 30 runs after chasing world record target of 444 runs. Ross Taylor equalized New Zealand's best with a 17th century on day three of the second Test in Hamilton on Monday. New Zealand declared their second innings at 291 for eight, leaving the West Indies a monumental 444 runs to win. The current record for a victorious fourth innings chase is 418, achieved 14 years ago when the West Indies reached the target against Australia for the loss of seven wickets.

Ross Taylor was the backbone for New Zealand who guide them for big total, facing 198 balls and stroking 11 boundaries in his mostly majestic innings as wickets fell around him. But he did give chances, with a top edge from Miguel Cummins flying just out of reach of wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich and on 35 he was dropped in the gully by Shai Hope off Shannon Gabriel.

New Zealand were then 263 for eight and with tailender Tim Southee (not out 22) plundering more boundaries they added a further 28 runs before declaring. The West Indies first innings folded quickly on the third morning for 221, giving New Zealand a 152-run head start going into their second knock.  Trent Boult took the last two wickets to fall in successive balls to be poised on a hat-trick when the West Indies bat again.