West Indies captain Chris Gayle made a timely return to the century ranks on Monday to ensure a final day showdown in the second cricket Test against New Zealand at McLean Park.

Gayle scored an unbeaten on 146 — his first century from 24 Tests in three years — as West Indies ended the fourth day at 278 for seven in their second dig, for a lead of 214.

New Zealand had reduced the tourists to 106 for four, but were thwarted by a valuable 124-run stand for the fifth wicket between Gayle and Brendan Nash.

With Shivnarine Chanderpaul falling off the first ball, Gayle and Nash dug in to bring the West Indies back into the Test.

Gayle started in fiery form, but became more watchful as his century neared, spending 15 overs in the 90s.

On 99 he offered one of his few chances when he played uppishly to mid-wicket and the ball fell just short of Daniel Flynn.

He then offered a chance going for his 100 when he stopped in the middle of the pitch and had second thoughts about the run before he saw Jeetan Patel misfield at point and he was able to get home for his century.

By the close of play he had been at the wicket for nearly five-and-a-half hours in an innings that included 13 fours and six sixes.

Brief scores

West Indies 307 & 278 for 7 in 115 overs ( C Gayle batting 146, B Nash 65; J Patel 3/83); New Zealand 371.