The West Indies team will need a miracle in order to record a series-leveling victory against New Zealand in the third and final Test, following another magnificent performance by New Zealand’s openers on the penultimate day at Bay Oval.
With 388 runs being made on the day, New Zealand set an improbable target of 462 runs for the West Indies to chase.
The Windies openers gave the team a solid start, reaching 43 without loss. Brandon King led with an unbeaten 37 off 46 balls, while John Campbell was overly cautious and scored just two runs from 50 balls. This suggests that the visitors may be content with a draw.
However, the West Indies were able to add just 39 runs to their overnight total of 381 for six to be dismissed for 420.
Kavem Hodge finished unbeaten on 123 off 275 balls, inclusive of 15 fours.
Pacer Jacob Duffy bagged two quick wickets, while Michael Rae and spinner Ajaz Patel claimed one apiece to ensure a first innings lead of 155.
New Zealand’s position was further enforced by their opening pair of captain Tom Latham and Devon Conway.
Captain Latham and Conway both scored centuries for the second time in the match to put New Zealand in control of the third Test.
Latham struck 101 off 130 balls, while Conway followed with an even 100 off 139 balls. Previously scoring 137 and 227 respectively in the first innings, they became the first pair of openers to score twin tons in the same game in all first-class cricket.
Conway also became the first New Zealand batter and 10th overall, to back up a double hundred with a century in the same Test match.
Latham then crossed three figures for the third time in the series, but soon after, he was superbly caught by Sealed with a delivery off Hodge, to leave the score 234 for two.
The pair of Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra then added a quick 72 runs from the next six overs to bring up the declaration.
Ravindra belted four sixes in his unbeaten knock of 46 off 23 balls, while Williamson struck two fours and one six with 40 not out off 37 balls.
It will require a Herculean effort from the West Indies to gather the remaining 419 runs required for a historic victory.
