New Zealand Sets Challenging Target for West Indies in Final Test

In the final Test match against New Zealand, the West Indies face a daunting target of 462 runs to level the series. Devon Conway shines with a historic double century and a century in the same match, leading New Zealand to a strong position. As the match progresses, the West Indies aim to chase down the massive total, following a solid performance in their first innings. With New Zealand currently leading the series, the stakes are high for both teams.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 21, 2025, 13:26 IST

West Indies Faces a Tall Order

In the third and final Test at Mount Maunganui, the West Indies have been tasked with chasing down a formidable total of 462 runs to level the series against New Zealand. This challenge comes after impressive centuries from New Zealand's opening duo, captain Tom Latham and Devon Conway, on Sunday.

Current Match Status

As the fourth day concluded, the West Indies stood at 43 runs without loss, with John Campbell scoring 2 not out and Brandon King at 37 not out, still requiring 419 runs for victory.

Devon Conway Achieves Milestone

Devon Conway has etched his name in history by becoming the first New Zealand player to score both a double century and a century in a single Test match. He achieved this remarkable feat with a score of 227 runs off 367 balls in the first innings, hitting 31 boundaries, which helped New Zealand declare at 575/8. In the second innings, he added a quickfire century, scoring 100 runs off 139 balls, including eight fours and three sixes, at a strike rate nearing 72. He is now the tenth player globally to accomplish the double of a double ton and a century in one Test.

Conway's Stellar Season

After a challenging couple of years, Conway has had an outstanding Test season, amassing 697 runs in five matches across nine innings, averaging 87.12 with a strike rate of 61.30. His season includes three centuries and two fifties, with a top score of 227.

New Zealand's Strong First Innings

Winning the toss, New Zealand chose to bat first. The opening partnership of Conway and Latham set a record with a 323-run stand, the highest for New Zealand's opening pair. Other notable contributions came from Rachin Ravindra (72 runs), Kane Williamson (31 runs), Glenn Phillips (29 runs), and Ajaz Patel (30 not out), leading to a declaration at 575/8. Jayden Seales, Anderson Phillip, and Justin Greaves each took two wickets for the West Indies.

West Indies' Response

The West Indies responded with a solid opening partnership of 111 runs between John Campbell (45 runs) and Brandon King (63 runs). Kavem Hodge played a crucial role, scoring an unbeaten 123 runs off 275 balls, while Alick Athanaze (45 runs) and Justin Greaves (43 runs) contributed significantly, bringing the West Indies total to 420 all out, trailing by 155 runs.

Kiwis Set a Massive Target

In their second innings, New Zealand declared at 306/2, with Latham scoring 101 runs, Kane Williamson contributing 40 not out, and Rachin Ravindra adding 46 not out, establishing a daunting lead of 461 runs.

Series Overview

New Zealand currently leads the three-match Test series 1-0, following a drawn first Test and a nine-wicket victory in the second.