Can Conway and Latham's Historic Stand Propel NZ to Victory Against WI?
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Synopsis
On Day 1 of the third Test at the Bay Oval, Devon Conway and Tom Latham set a remarkable record with their partnership, leading New Zealand to a commanding 334/1. Their historic performance not only shattered previous records but also showcased their dominance against the West Indies. Discover the thrilling details of this spectacular match.
Key Takeaways
- Devon Conway and Tom Latham achieved a historic opening partnership of 323 runs.
- Conway ended the day with an unbeaten score of 178.
- Latham contributed 137 runs before being dismissed.
- This partnership set a new record since the ICC World Test Championship began.
- New Zealand finished the day at a commanding 334/1.
Mount Maunganui, Dec 18 (NationPress) On Thursday at the Bay Oval, Devon Conway and Tom Latham achieved a remarkable feat, leading New Zealand to an impressive 334/1 at the conclusion of Day 1 of the third Test against the West Indies. This outstanding performance shattered records as the duo dismantled a struggling West Indies bowling lineup.
Conway ended the day not out at 178, while captain Latham contributed significantly with a score of 137. Together, they forged a phenomenal opening partnership of 323 runs, setting a new benchmark for the highest opening stand in Test matches since the ICC World Test Championship began, eclipsing the previous record held by India's Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal.
Rohit and Agarwal's record of 317 runs for the opening wicket against South Africa in Visakhapatnam in 2019 has now been surpassed.
This partnership also marks the second-highest opening partnership in New Zealand's Test history, only behind Glenn Turner and Terry Jarvis’ 387 runs against the West Indies in Georgetown in 1972, and it is the eighth instance of New Zealand achieving a partnership of over 300 runs in the longest format of the game.
Choosing to bat first, New Zealand started strong, reaching 83/0 in the first session, with both players reaching their fifties after lunch. A brief rain delay interrupted play, but once resumed, Conway and Latham added 133 runs in the second session.
Conway displayed exceptional focus, reaching his sixth Test century off just 147 balls, hitting 25 boundaries, and it marked his first century at home since January 2022, following a score of 153 against Zimbabwe earlier in the year. By Tea, New Zealand was at 216 without loss.
After Tea, Latham also reached his century, his 15th in Tests, hitting 15 fours and a six from 264 balls. West Indies had their best chance when Latham, on 104, was dropped by wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach off Anderson Phillip’s delivery with New Zealand at 253 for no loss. The duo soon brought up the 300-run mark.
Latham eventually fell late in the day to veteran West Indies bowler Kemar Roach (1-63). Meanwhile, Conway remained unbeaten at 178, with Jacob Duffy on 9 not out, leaving New Zealand firmly in command of the third Test 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 vital to highlight New Zealand's remarkable achievement on this historic day. Devon Conway and Tom Latham's stellar performance not only sets new records but also reinforces New Zealand's position in the cricketing world. Their incredible partnership showcases the depth of talent in the team, promising an exciting Test match ahead.
NationPress
18/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the partnership record set by Conway and Latham?
Conway and Latham set a new record for the highest opening partnership in Tests since the ICC World Test Championship began, with a monumental 323 runs.
How did Conway perform in the match?
Devon Conway ended Day 1 unbeaten on 178, showcasing remarkable concentration and hitting 25 boundaries.
What is the significance of this performance for New Zealand's Test history?
This partnership is the second-largest opening partnership in New Zealand's Test history, only surpassed by Glenn Turner and Terry Jarvis' 387 runs.
Who were the West Indies bowlers during the match?
Kemar Roach was one of the West Indies bowlers, finishing the day with figures of 1-63.
What were the brief scores at the end of Day 1?
At the end of Day 1, New Zealand was at 334/1 in 90 overs.
