West Indies look to level series

The West Indies will aim to bounce back in the second Twenty20 international against New Zealand in Wellington on Wednesday. After an 81-run loss in the first T20 on Saturday, the West Indies are still without injured big-hitters Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Darren Sammy and Dwayne Smith as they attempt to level the series. The absence of the brute force in the batting line-up was noticeable in the first match as the away side crumbled to 108-8 off their 20 overs - well short of the target of 190 set by New Zealand. Captain Dwayne Bravo will need to make a big score to give his side a chance and might be promoted up the order from his usual number five slot to help put pressure on New Zealand's frontline bowlers. Wicket-keeper Andre Fletcher top-scored with a solid 23 in his first international match in over six months and will be a key factor coming in at first drop. Great knocks from skipper Brendon McCullum (60 not out) and Luke Ronchi (48 not out) formed the backbone of New Zealand's win in the opening game and they are the danger men. The big-hitting Corey Anderson could also be a factor but only made a two-ball duck in the first encounter and will be keen to get among the runs. New Zealand was boosted by superb bowling performances from Nathan McCullum (4-24) and Jimmy Neesham (3-16) with Tim Southee's opening spell setting the tone. If the home side's bowlers again restrict the West Indies to less than six per over, New Zealand should clinch victory in game two and the series.