Christchurch, December 6 (Daily Kiran) – The Test match played in Christchurch proved to be one of those rare encounters that started normally, turned disappointing, but ended as a remarkable display of resilience and determination. On the final day, Justin Graves played an unbeaten historic innings of 202 runs — a knock that began as a defensive effort and finished as a refusal to accept defeat.
West Indies, after collapsing from 100/2 to all out for 167 in the first innings and facing a challenging target of 530 runs or two days of batting in the second innings, managed to secure a miraculous draw against all expectations.
Graves-Roch’s Record 180-Run Partnership
Alongside number eight batsman Kemar Roch, Graves formed an unbreakable partnership of 180 runs off 409 balls on the final day. This seventh-wicket stand is a world record partnership, surpassing the 35-year-old Tendulkar-Prabhakar record.
West Indies’ second innings lasted 163.3 overs — their fourth longest innings since 1930.
The team’s score of 457/6 is the highest total ever made in the fourth innings of any time-limited Test match.
Shai Hope’s Fighting 140 Runs
Graves received significant support from Shai Hope, who scored a gritty 140 runs while battling an eye infection. Together, they built a 196-run partnership, laying a strong foundation to save the match.
New Zealand’s Struggles and Luck
New Zealand’s challenge weakened when their two main fast bowlers, Matt Henry and Nathan Smith, left the field due to injuries.
All three DRS reviews were exhausted before the final session, leaving New Zealand helpless in some close appeals. Off-spinner Michael Bracewell bowled 55 overs and came close to dismissing Roch twice, but luck was not on his side.
Chase Hopes and Wise Decisions
When West Indies were 398/6 with 132 runs needed off 33 overs, a win seemed possible briefly. However, Graves and Roch chose to play sensibly, focusing on defense and tiring out New Zealand’s bowlers.
Brief Scores
New Zealand: 231 & 466/8 declared
West Indies: 167 & 457/6
(Justin Graves 202*, Shai Hope 140, Kemar Roch 58; Jacob Duffy 3/122)
Match result: Draw
This Test match stands as a shining example of West Indies’ gritty batting, patience, and self-belief that will be remembered for a long time.
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(Daily Kiran) Dubey