New Zealand Dominates West Indies in Opening Test

New Zealand Takes Command in Test Match

Christchurch, Dec 4: New Zealand showcased a commanding performance in the first Test against the West Indies, concluding Day 3 with a score of 417/4, which gives them a substantial lead of 481 runs at Hagley Oval.

Starting the day at 32/0, New Zealand was already 96 runs ahead. By the end of the day, they had added 385 runs, thanks to an impressive 279-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra, who scored 176, and Tom Latham, who contributed 145.

Latham and Devon Conway began the day by extending their overnight partnership to 84 runs before Conway was dismissed by Ojay Shields. Kane Williamson also fell shortly after, leaving New Zealand at 100/2 with a lead of 164 runs.

The West Indies struggled to make further breakthroughs until late in the day, as Rachin and Latham launched an aggressive attack. Rachin reached his half-century in just 52 balls, while Latham secured his 14th Test century just before Tea. Rachin ended the session with a boundary, bringing his score to 70 off 75 balls, with the duo adding 133 runs in just over 27 overs.

After Tea, New Zealand's lead quickly surpassed 300, with Rachin achieving his fourth Test century in just 107 balls, hitting three boundaries in the first two overs.

As the second new ball was taken, New Zealand had already established a 400-run lead, with Ravindra surpassing Latham's score. Kemar Roach finally broke the formidable partnership with an inswinger that clipped Latham's inside edge. Rachin was dismissed later by a surprising yorker from Shields.

Despite these late wickets, New Zealand managed to score 184 runs in the final session, leaving the West Indies with a daunting challenge ahead.

Brief scores: New Zealand 231 & 417/4 (Rachin Ravindra 176, Tom Latham 145; Kemar Roach 2-61) lead West Indies 167 by 481 runs.