Shai Hope’s brilliant century of 116 not out and Justin Greaves’ supporting 55 runs helped West Indies reach 212-4 at stumps on Friday in Christchurch, keeping alive their slim chances of saving the first Test against New Zealand. The tourists still need 319 runs to reach their target of 531, while New Zealand requires six more wickets with the new ball just six overs away.The West Indies’ resistance was aided by injuries in New Zealand’s pace attack. Nathan Smith was sidelined with a side strain for the remainder of the Test, while Matt Henry was limited to 11 overs due to hamstring issues.
Hope, who is currently dealing with an eye infection, continued his impressive form following his 56 in the first innings and a recent century against India. His innings included 15 fours and one six, celebrating his century after driving Ravindra to the covers for a single.The absence of key bowlers forced captain Tom Latham to utilize off-spinner Michael Bracewell and part-timer Rachin Ravindra more extensively than planned.Greaves provided solid support in the 140-run partnership for the fifth wicket, offering two faint edges that fell short of the slip cordon.The morning session saw West Indies at 11-0 at lunch, but New Zealand dominated the second session by taking four wickets.Jacob Duffy struck twice after lunch, removing John Campbell for 15 and Tagenarine Chanderpaul for six. Bracewell dismissed Alick Athanaze for five when the batsman mistimed a long-hop to Zak Foulkes at mid-on.Henry briefly returned to dismiss captain Roston Chase for four before being restricted due to his hamstring concern.Earlier in the day, New Zealand added 49 runs to their overnight score of 417-4. Kemar Roach finished with impressive figures of 5-78, claiming the wickets of Bracewell, Henry, and Duffy, the latter through a return catch.The New Zealand innings concluded at 466-8, with injured players Tom Blundell and Smith unable to bat. Both players remain doubtful for the second Test scheduled to begin next Wednesday in Wellington.The West Indies faced a daunting target of 531 runs but showed resilience through Hope and Greaves’ partnership after being reduced to 72-4.The match remains firmly in New Zealand’s control despite their bowling limitations, with the new ball approaching and six wickets still required for victory.
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