KINGSTON, Jamaica – West Indies, replying to New Zealand’s 508 for seven declared, were 19 without loss in the first innings at the close on the second day of the first Test at Sabina Park on Monday.

Left-hander James Neesham hit his second Test century in as many outings for New Zealand.

But expectant home fans are looking to Christopher Gayle, playing in his hundredth Test, to provide the perfect riposte when West Indies resume on Tuesday from their overnight score of 19-0.

Gayle is unbeaten on eight, while fellow left-handed opener Kieran Powell is on 11.

Play is scheduled to begin at 10:00 am.

Scores: New Zealand 508-7 declared (174.3 overs); West Indies 19-0 (9 overs)

The main highlight on an easy-paced pitch was the achievement of the free-scoring Neesham, who became the first Kiwi player to make centuries in each of his first two Test matches after an unbeaten 137 in a draw against India in February.

On Monday, the 23-year-old made 107.

West Indies left-arm spinner Sulieman Benn toiled for 3-142 off a staggering 52 overs and off-spinner Shane Shillingford also took three wickets.

Earlier, West Indies took three wickets in the morning session, but New Zealand kept them wicketless throughout the entire second stanza.

The visitors started the day on 240-2 with middle-order batsmen Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor unbeaten on 105 and 34.

Williamson was dismissed for an attractive 113, while Taylor contributed 55.

The hosts faced nine overs before the close and were fortunate not to lose a wicket.

Powell, on eight, was dropped by second slip fielder Peter Fulton in the fourth over when the batsman poked at a full, angled delivery from pacer Tim Southee.

NEW ZEALAND: 508 for seven dec Kane Williamson 113, James Neesham 107, BJ Watling 89, Tom Latham 83, Ross Taylor 55, Tim Southee 21 not out; (Sulieman Benn 3-142, Shane Shillingford 3-145).

WEST INDIES: 19 without loss.