The Hindu : Gayle, Styris hit centuries

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Monday, Jul 01, 2002

Sport

Sport - Cricket

Gayle, Styris hit centuries

ST. GEORGE'S (Grenada) June 30. Left-hander Chris Gayle hit his second Test century on Sunday, as the West Indies mounted a strong reply to New Zealand's 373 on the third day of the second Cable & Wireless cricket Test at Queen's Park Stadium.

The 22-year-old Gayle was unbeaten on 105 an hour after lunch as the home team reached 230 for three.

After going in to lunch at 208 for two, Brian Lara was caught by Robbie Hart off Scott Styris for 48. New Zealand had gained its only wicket in the extended morning session through a brilliant run out by Chris Harris that accounted for the stylish Ramnaresh Sarwan for 39. West Indies had finished on 63 for one at close on the second day.

Gayle and Sarwan both started with a flourish as they fashioned a century second-wicket partnership with little bother on an excellent batting pitch. An error in judgment led to Sarwan's downfall. He stroked his 108th delivery onto the off side and set off for a run, but Harris' sprawling dive from extra cover and quick return to bowler Daniel Vettori found him short of his ground. Earlier, Test debutant Scott Styris guided New Zealand to 373 all out with a classy century that could ensure at least a series victory.

The 27-year-old Styris, plucked from the one-day team that lost a series 1-3 to the West Indies earlier this month, batted fluently to become only the sixth New Zealander to score a century on debut. — AFP

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