A fighting unbeaten century from Shai Hope helped the West Indies push the first Test against New Zealand into a decisive fifth day, but the visitors remain under pressure with the hosts well-placed to secure victory.
Hope, who has been battling an allergic reaction affecting his eyes, showed remarkable determination on day four, ending 116 not out as he anchored the West Indies’ second innings alongside Justin Greaves, who is unbeaten on 55. Despite their resistance, the Caribbean side will need something extraordinary on the final day to chase down the massive target.
Resuming from their overnight total of 417–4, New Zealand pushed on to 466–8 declared.
Rachin Ravindra completed a superb 176, while Tom Latham added 145 to leave the West Indies with a mountain to climb.
Veteran pacer Kemar Roach was the standout bowler for the visitors, finishing with 5–78, his latest five-wicket haul at Test level.
Set 531 to win, the West Indies stumbled early at 55–3, but Hope’s composed batting offered a glimmer of hope. His century, crafted under pressure, kept the match alive as the team reached 212–4 at stumps.
Scores;
New Zealand: 231 & 466–8 declared
West Indies: 167 & 212–4
(West Indies need 319 more runs for a historic victory, New Zealand need 6 wickets to take a 1–0 lead in the series).
All eyes now turn to the final day, where Hope and Greaves will continue their crucial partnership as the West Indies attempt to defy the odds.
