Did Conway and Latham Set a 462-Run Target for West Indies on Day 4?
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Synopsis
In an exhilarating display of cricket, Devon Conway and Tom Latham propelled New Zealand to a staggering 462-run target against the West Indies. As Day 5 approaches, the pressure mounts for the visitors to rise to the occasion and secure a draw or possibly snatch victory.
Key Takeaways
- Devon Conway scored a century, solidifying his place in history.
- Tom Latham also achieved a century, contributing significantly to the team's total.
- The West Indies face a daunting task on Day 5 with 418 runs needed to win.
- Both teams are vying for victory in this crucial Test match.
- The pitch conditions may play a crucial role in the outcome of the match.
Mount Maunganui, Dec 21 (NationPress) Devon Conway and Tom Latham once again showcased their skills, forming a remarkable 192-run partnership that allowed New Zealand to set an enormous target of 462 runs for the West Indies to pursue. Heading into Day 5 with only three sessions left, the visitors face a daunting challenge.
The West Indies began Day 4 of the third and final Test against New Zealand poorly, losing a wicket in only the second over after resuming from their overnight score of 381/6. Although Shai Hope was fit to play, his innings was cut short by Jacob Duffy in the fourth over, leaving the visitors struggling at 390/8.
Kavem Hodge and Jayden Seales attempted to stabilize the innings, but Ajaz Patel and Michael Rae took crucial wickets, concluding the Windies' first innings at 420/10.
New Zealand limited the visitors to a mere 39 runs added to their overnight score, taking the remaining four wickets, which provided a significant 155-run lead. Hodge stood out for the West Indies, remaining unbeaten with a commendable 123 off 275 balls.
The hosts ended the session positively; after dismissing the West Indies, Devon Conway and Tom Latham began their innings in fantastic form, extending their lead to 190 runs by the end of the second session.
The opening duo formed yet another century partnership, contributing 192 runs for the first wicket. New Zealand scored 157 runs in the second session, thanks to Conway’s century and Latham’s 80 before the tea break.
Conway (100) made history by becoming the first New Zealander to score both a double-century and a century in a single Test match. Following his impressive 227 in the first innings, he added a composed 100 in the second, achieving this milestone just before tea on Day 4.
This century marked Conway’s seventh in Test cricket, highlighting his remarkable consistency. He was ultimately dismissed on the third ball after tea, with Jayden Seales taking a spectacular catch off Kavem Hodge.
Latham (101) also fell shortly after reaching his century, with Hodge and Seales again collaborating for the wicket. Kane Williamson (40*) and Rachin Ravindra (46*) played elegant innings, attempting to reach their respective half-centuries until Latham signaled for the declaration, setting a formidable 462-run target for the visitors.
John Campbell and Brandon King opened the final innings for the West Indies, aiming to avoid losing a wicket in the last hour, successfully finishing the day at 43/0.
With all ten wickets intact heading into Day 5 and a challenging 418 runs to chase, a win seems unlikely at this point, though a draw appears possible. The pitch shows signs of variable bounce, yet Campbell and King navigated the first 16 overs without much difficulty, with King exhibiting elegant strokes while Campbell focused on defense.
Both sides will enter the final day with aspirations for victory. A win for New Zealand would secure a 2-0 series victory, while a win for the West Indies would lead to a 1-1 draw following the first match in Christchurch, which ended in a stalemate.
Brief Scores:
New Zealand 575/8 & 306/2 dec (Tom Latham 101, Devon Conway 100; Kavem Hodge 2-80) lead West Indies 420 & 43/0 (Brandon King 37*, John Campbell 2*) by 418 runs.
Point of View
I observe the intense competition between New Zealand and the West Indies. Both teams demonstrate exceptional skill and determination, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion to the series. The performance of players like Conway, Latham, and Hodge exemplifies the high stakes of Test cricket, making this match one to watch closely.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the target set by New Zealand?
New Zealand set a target of 462 runs for the West Indies to chase.
Who were the standout players for New Zealand?
Devon Conway and Tom Latham were the standout players, both scoring centuries.
What is the current score of the West Indies?
The West Indies finished Day 4 at 43 runs without losing a wicket.
What does the pitch condition indicate?
The pitch shows signs of variable bounce, which could affect the batting performance.
What is at stake for both teams on Day 5?
New Zealand seeks a series win, while the West Indies aim for a draw or victory.
