Can Conway and Latham's Historic Stand Propel NZ to Victory?
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Synopsis
On a remarkable Day 1 at the Bay Oval, Devon Conway and Tom Latham put forth a spectacular opening partnership, leading New Zealand to an impressive total against the West Indies. This performance not only set records but also showcased their dominance on the field. Will they continue this form in the remaining days of the Test?
Key Takeaways
- Devon Conway scored a stunning 178 not out.
- Tom Latham contributed significantly with 137.
- The pair set a new record with a 323-run opening partnership.
- This was New Zealand's second-largest opening partnership in Test history.
- New Zealand ended Day 1 at 334 for 1.
Mount Maunganui, Dec 18 (NationPress) Devon Conway and Tom Latham showcased a record-breaking performance on the opening day at the Bay Oval on Thursday, dismantling a struggling West Indies bowling lineup as New Zealand concluded Day 1 of the third Test at an impressive 334/1.
Conway ended the day not out on 178, while captain Latham was dismissed late in the day for 137, with the duo forming a monumental 323-run opening partnership. This remarkable feat set a new record for the highest opening partnership in Tests since the inception of the ICC World Test Championship, overtaking the previous record of 317 held by Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal.
The previous record was established during a match against South Africa in Visakhapatnam in 2019. Furthermore, this partnership stands as the second-largest opening partnership in New Zealand's Test history, only behind the 387 runs made by Glenn Turner and Terry Jarvis against the West Indies in Georgetown in 1972. It also marks just the eighth instance of a 300-plus partnership by New Zealand in the longest format.
Choosing to bat first, the hosts made a rapid start, reaching 83/0 at the end of the first session, with both players reaching their fifties after the lunch break. A brief rain delay momentarily halted play.
After resuming, Conway and Latham, who had scored 83 in the first session, added another 133 runs in the second session. Conway displayed exceptional focus, achieving his sixth Test century off just 147 balls and hitting 25 boundaries. This was his first home century since January 2022, following a 153 against Zimbabwe earlier this year. By the time they reached Tea, New Zealand was at 216 for no loss.
After the break, Latham secured his century, his 15th in Tests, with a boundary off Roach, accumulating 15 fours and a six from 264 balls. The West Indies' best opportunity came late in the day when Latham, on 104, was dropped by wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach off Anderson Phillip's bowling with New Zealand at 253 for no loss. Shortly after, the pair brought the total to over 300.
Latham was dismissed late on the first day by veteran West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach (1-63), while Conway ended the day at 178 not out, with Jacob Duffy (9 not out) accompanying him as the hosts wrapped up Day 1 in a commanding position at 334/1.
Brief Scores: New Zealand 334-1 in 90 overs (Devon Conway 178*, Tom Latham 137; Kemar Roach 1-63) vs West Indies
Point of View
It's thrilling to witness such an extraordinary display of skill and resilience from New Zealand's top order. The historic partnership between Conway and Latham is not just a highlight for the team but also a moment of pride for New Zealand cricket. As we watch the match unfold, it’s crucial to appreciate the artistry of Test cricket and the potential for further records to be set.
NationPress
21/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What record did Conway and Latham break?
They set a new record for the highest opening partnership in Tests since the ICC World Test Championship began, surpassing the previous record of 317 runs.
How many runs did Conway score?
Devon Conway finished Day 1 with an impressive score of 178 not out.
What was Tom Latham's score at stumps?
Tom Latham was dismissed for 137 runs on the opening day.
What was New Zealand's total at the end of Day 1?
New Zealand closed Day 1 at a formidable total of 334 for 1 wicket.
Who took the only wicket for West Indies?
Kemar Roach took the only wicket, dismissing Tom Latham for 137.
