New Zealand Sets Massive Target Against West Indies in Final Test
New Zealand's Dominant Performance
New Zealand declared their innings at a formidable score of 575/8, thanks to captain Tom Latham's century, Devon Conway's impressive double century, and a quickfire 72 runs from Rachin Ravindra. In response, the West Indies showcased a strong performance by forming an unbeaten century partnership for their first wicket at the end of the second day of the third and final Test in Mount Maunganui. By day's end, the West Indies had reached 110/0, with John Campbell (45*) and Brandon King (55*) both not out, leaving New Zealand 465 runs behind.
Day Two Highlights
The second day commenced with New Zealand at 334/1, featuring Conway (178*) and Jacob Duffy (9*) at the crease. Latham scored 137 runs off 246 balls, including 15 fours and a six, while Conway and Latham's opening partnership of 323 runs set a record for the highest first-wicket stand by a New Zealand pair in Test history, surpassing the previous record of 276 runs set by Stewie Dempster and Jackie Mills against England in 1930.
Key Contributions and Bowling Efforts
Jaden Seales (2/100) struck early in the session by dismissing Duffy, while Conway and Kane Williamson (31 runs off 60 balls, with five fours) added 69 runs together. Conway completed his second Test double century, hitting 28 fours in 316 balls. However, quick wickets fell as Williamson, Conway, Daryl Mitchell (11), and Tom Blundell (4) were dismissed, leaving New Zealand at 461/6 after 133 overs. Rachin (72* runs off 106 balls, with six fours and two sixes) and Glenn Phillips (29 runs off 49 balls, with four fours) helped push New Zealand past 500 runs in 143 overs.
West Indies' Response
New Zealand declared their innings at 575/8 after 155 overs. The West Indies bowlers struggled, with Justin Greaves (2/83), Seales (2/100), and Anderson Phillip (2/134) each taking two wickets, while captain Roston Chase and Kemar Roach claimed one wicket each. Campbell and King provided a solid start for the West Indies, reaching 50 runs in 9.5 overs and 100 runs in 19.2 overs. The West Indies will aim to continue their impressive batting form, hoping to add another achievement to their list following their strong performance in the Delhi Test against India earlier this year.