Christchurch, December 6 (Daily Kiran) – West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves described the first Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval as the most special day of his career after helping his team save the match from defeat. Greaves scored an unbeaten 202 runs, guiding West Indies to a historic draw in the fourth innings.
Chasing a massive target of 531 runs set by New Zealand, West Indies batted for 163.3 overs. Greaves (202* runs off 388 balls) and Kemar Roach (58* runs off 233 balls) put together an unbeaten partnership of 180 runs for the seventh wicket, stabilising the innings. This was one of the second highest fourth innings totals in Test cricket history, with West Indies finishing at 457/6, second only to England’s 654/5 in 1939.
Greaves said, “This day is very special for me and the team. Our dressing room had a single mindset – patience. The coach told us to stay at the crease and play carefully as the pitch was good. I followed that advice.”
By scoring a double century in the fourth innings, Greaves became only the seventh batsman in Test cricket history to achieve this feat. Roach also played his best innings in his 86-Test career.
On the fifth day, the pitch remained very flat, and Roach provided crucial support by facing 233 balls. Greaves added, “When Shai Hope got out, the situation became tough, but Kemar showed experienced cricket and stayed with me till the end.”
At one point, West Indies were struggling at 72/4, but Shai Hope (140) and Greaves strengthened the team’s position. Although there was a chance to win during the final session, West Indies opted to play safely for a draw after losing key wickets.
Greaves explained, “Our goal was to take the match to the final session. We needed 100 runs for a win, but after losing important wickets, we decided that securing the draw was the right call. Being part of this historic moment is fantastic.”
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(Daily Kiran) Dube
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