Mount Maunganui, 19 December (H.S.): A majestic double century by opener Devon Conway (227) helped New Zealand declare their first innings at 575 for eight on the second day of the third Test against West Indies. In response, the visitors made a solid start, reaching 110 without loss at stumps, though they still trail by 465 runs.

Openers Brandon King and John Campbell batted with composure in fading light, negotiating 23 overs without losing a wicket. King remained unbeaten on 55 from 62 balls with nine fours, while Campbell closed the day on 45 off 60 deliveries, hitting seven boundaries.

The pair looked comfortable on a placid Bay Oval track, countering New Zealand’s new-ball attack with solid technique and aggressive intent.Earlier, New Zealand’s innings was powered by Conway’s record-breaking double century, the second of his Test career.

Facing 316 balls, he struck 28 fours in a commanding display of timing and patience. Rachin Ravindra provided late acceleration with an unbeaten 72, which included six fours and two sixes, while Ajaz Patel added a brisk 30 to propel the hosts past the 550-run mark.

New Zealand skipper Tom Latham declared the innings to allow his bowlers over an hour’s play before stumps. Among West Indian bowlers, Justin Greaves was the most effective, claiming 2 for 83 from 29 overs. Jayden Seales and Anderson Phillip also picked up two wickets each in an otherwise challenging outing for the injury-hit visitors.

Greaves remarked that despite tough conditions, their bowlers maintained discipline and fought hard.The West Indies faced fitness concerns during the match — Kemar Roach suffered a hamstring injury and remains doubtful for batting duties, while Shai Hope stayed back at the team hotel due to illness. Opener John Campbell batted with a strapped right hand after sustaining a minor injury earlier in the day.

The tourists also missed key chances in the field.

Kavem Hodge dropped Conway when he was on 206, and Daryl Mitchell was reprieved early in his innings. However, a sharp spell by Seales after lunch brought some late breakthroughs.With the Bay Oval pitch offering little assistance to bowlers, New Zealand will depend on early wickets on Day 3 to maintain control, while West Indies aim to build on their solid foundation and avert the follow-on threat.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar