How did Rachin and Latham's centuries secure NZ a 481-run lead over WI at stumps on Day 3?

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How did Rachin and Latham's centuries secure NZ a 481-run lead over WI at stumps on Day 3?

Synopsis

Witness how Rachin Ravindra and Tom Latham's extraordinary centuries propelled New Zealand to a commanding position in the first Test against the West Indies. With an impressive lead of 481 runs at stumps on Day 3, this match is a thrilling showcase of cricketing prowess.

Key Takeaways

  • Rachin Ravindra scored an impressive 176 runs.
  • Tom Latham contributed with 145 runs.
  • The pair formed a formidable partnership of 279 runs.
  • New Zealand concluded Day 3 at 417/4.
  • The lead over the West Indies is a whopping 481 runs.

Christchurch, December 4 (NationPress) A remarkable display of batting from Rachin Ravindra and Tom Latham has positioned New Zealand in a commanding stance during the first Test as they concluded Day 3 with a score of 417/4, establishing a significant 481-run lead over the West Indies at the Hagley Oval on Thursday.

Beginning the day at 32/0, New Zealand was already 96 runs ahead. By stumps, they had amassed 385 runs, largely due to an impressive 279-run partnership between Rachin (176) and Latham (145).

As the day started, Latham and Devon Conway extended their overnight stand to 84 before Conway was dismissed, caught at deep point off Ojay Shields, who later bowled Kane Williamson for 9. At that point, New Zealand found themselves at 100/2, leading by 164 runs.

The West Indies struggled to find another breakthrough until late in the final session, as Rachin and Latham unleashed a barrage of runs. Rachin raced to his half-century in just 52 balls, while Latham secured his 14th Test century just before Tea. Rachin concluded the session with a boundary, reaching 70 off 75 balls, with the duo having added 133 runs in a brisk 27.1 overs.

Following the Tea break, the lead surpassed 300 in the opening over, with Rachin claiming his fourth Test century in just 107 deliveries, striking three boundaries in the initial two overs.

When the second new ball was taken, New Zealand was already 400 runs ahead, with Ravindra surpassing Latham's score. Finally, Kemar Roach broke the formidable 279-run partnership with an inswinging delivery that clipped Latham's inside edge. Rachin was later dismissed by a surprise yorker from Shields.

Despite these late wickets, New Zealand still managed to accumulate 184 runs in the final session, leaving the West Indies with a daunting challenge ahead.

Brief scores: New Zealand 231 & 417/4 (Rachin Ravindra 176, Tom Latham 145; Kemar Roach 2-61) lead West Indies 167 by 481 runs.

Point of View

It’s clear that New Zealand's performance so far in this Test match is nothing short of spectacular. The aggression displayed by Rachin and Latham showcases the depth of talent in our cricketing squad. As we move forward, the West Indies face an uphill battle to reclaim momentum in this game.
NationPress
04/12/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Who scored the centuries for New Zealand?
Rachin Ravindra and Tom Latham both scored centuries, with Rachin making 176 runs and Latham scoring 145 runs.
What was New Zealand's lead at the end of Day 3?
New Zealand ended Day 3 with a lead of 481 runs over the West Indies.
How many runs did New Zealand score on Day 3?
New Zealand scored 385 runs on Day 3.
Who was the standout bowler for the West Indies?
Kemar Roach was the standout bowler for the West Indies, taking 2 wickets for 61 runs.
Where is the match being played?
The match is being played at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Nation Press