Kavem Hodge's Resilient Century Helps West Indies Steady Against New Zealand

Hodge's Century Anchors West Indies on Day 3

Mount Maunganui [New Zealand], December 20: Kavem Hodge achieved a determined second Test century, reaching the milestone off 224 deliveries, including 12 boundaries. This performance allowed the West Indies to stabilize their innings at 381-6 at the close of Day 3 against New Zealand in the third Test.

Hodge's century was crucial in helping the West Indies avoid the follow-on. At the end of the third day, they stood at 381-6, still trailing by 194 runs, with Hodge not out on 109 and Anderson Phillip supporting him on 12.

The 32-year-old Hodge took his time to reach his century, hitting 12 boundaries along the way. The West Indies began the day at 110/0, with John Campbell (45*) and Brandon King (55*) still at the crease, needing to make up a deficit of 465 runs.

Jacob Duffy made an early impact by dismissing Campbell for 45, bringing Hodge to the crease alongside King. Duffy struck again shortly after, sending King back for 63. Hodge then formed a 66-run partnership with wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach before Imlach was dismissed for 27 by Michael Rae.

Alick Athanaze and Justin Greaves contributed significantly with scores of 45 and 43, respectively. However, West Indies captain Roston Chase had a disappointing outing, getting out for just 2 runs, courtesy of Ajaz Patel.

Earlier in the match, New Zealand declared at a formidable 575/8, bolstered by a century from captain Tom Latham, Devon Conway's impressive double century, and a quick-fire 72 from Rachin Ravindra. The West Indies also showcased a strong performance with an unbeaten century partnership for the opening wicket by the end of the second day.

Brief Scores: NZ: 575/8 (Devon Conway 227, Tom Latham 127, Justin Greaves 2/83) vs. WI: 381-6 in 113 overs (Kavem Hodge 109*, Brandon King 63; Jacob Duffy 2/70).