Resilient Hope Battles to Keep West Indies Afloat in Test Against New Zealand

A brilliant century by Shai Hope, with strong support from Justin Greaves, led the West Indies to 212 for four at the close of play on Friday, keeping their slim hopes alive in the first Test against New Zealand in Christchurch. Hope remained unbeaten on 116, while Greaves contributed 55, as they shared a critical 140-run partnership for the fifth wicket after the West Indies struggled at 72 for four.

New Zealand is in need of six more wickets, with the new ball just six overs away, while the West Indies face a daunting target of 531 and require an additional 319 runs.

The West Indies benefited from injuries affecting New Zealand’s pace attack, requiring captain Tom Latham to be innovative in managing his bowlers. Seamer Nathan Smith was sidelined due to a side strain, while lead bowler Matt Henry was limited to 11 overs with a hamstring issue. Consequently, off-spinner Michael Bracewell and part-timer Rachin Ravindra entered the attack sooner and for longer than anticipated.

Hope’s resilient performance is noteworthy, as he remains in excellent form despite an eye infection. He scored 56 in the first innings and arrived in New Zealand after hitting a century against India. His lively play included 15 fours and a six; his joy was apparent as he acknowledged his century with a single off Ravindra.

Greaves was a reliable partner, surviving two faint edges that landed safely before the slip cordon. After West Indies lunched at 11-0, New Zealand seized control in the afternoon with four wickets. Jacob Duffy claimed John Campbell for 15, caught by Bracewell at first slip. In his next over, Duffy had Tagenarine Chanderpaul caught behind for six.

Right-arm spinner Bracewell then secured an easy dismissal of Alick Athanaze for five. Despite a chance to hit a boundary, Athanaze found Zak Foulkes at mid-on. Henry briefly returned to dismiss captain Roston Chase for four.

New Zealand resumed its innings at 417 for four, adding 49 more runs in an hour. Kemar Roach ended the innings by catching a return from Duffy, who was on 10. Roach also took the wickets of Bracewell and Henry, concluding with figures of 5-78.

New Zealand’s innings concluded at 466 for eight, with the injured Tom Blundell (hamstring) and Smith unable to bat, casting doubt on their availability for the second Test starting in Wellington next Wednesday.

Published on Dec 05, 2025.