Centuries from Latham and Ravindra Put New Zealand in Commanding Lead Over West Indies

In a commanding display at Christchurch’s Hagley Oval on Thursday, Rachin Ravindra scored a remarkable 176, and captain Tom Latham broke his three-year dry spell without a Test century. Together, they forged a massive 279-run partnership that significantly bolstered New Zealand’s position against the West Indies in the opening Test match.

By the end of the third day, the host team stood at an impressive 417 for four, leading by 481 runs and setting the stage for what seems to be an inevitable victory. At the close of play, Will Young was at the crease with 21, alongside Michael Bracewell, who was on six.

Reflecting on Ravindra’s innings, Latham remarked, “He had a bit of luck in the beginning, but his performance was outstanding. He played all the shots—driving on the up, driving down the ground, pull shots—and he completely earned his century today.”

The home advantage was evident as New Zealand capitalized on their initial innings lead of 64 runs, tightening their grip when play resumed. Although the West Indies managed to secure two wickets in the morning session—debutant Ojay Shields dismissing Devon Conway for 37, and Kemar Roach taking Kane Williamson for nine right before lunch—the pressure soon faded. Missed catching opportunities further undermined their efforts.

Ravindra benefitted from some costly misses by the fielders early in his innings, twice surviving potential dismissals. Justin Greaves watched futile chances slip away as Roach missed a difficult midwicket catch and substitute fielder Kavem Hodge fumbled a straightforward slip catch.

Ravindra pushed forward, reaching his half-century and successfully hitting Johann Layne for a boundary to achieve a swift 108-ball century, marking his fourth Test hundred. Latham, celebrating his 14th Test hundred, allowed Ravindra to showcase his skill with shots spanning the field.

Roach eventually claimed Latham’s wicket for 145 runs, a knock that included 12 boundaries. Ojay Shields struck again with the new ball, bowling Ravindra with a yorker. Despite the solid effort by the visitor’s camp, Shields showed little enthusiasm in celebrating an already accomplished innings by Ravindra, who had struck 27 fours and a six by then.

Published on December 4, 2025.