Christchurch, 6 December (H.S.): In one of the most unforgettable Test matches in recent memory, the West Indies defied all odds to secure a miraculous draw against New Zealand in Christchurch, thanks to a heroic unbeaten 202 by Justin Greaves. What began as a match spiraling toward defeat transformed into a spectacle of grit, patience, and remarkable self-belief.
After collapsing from 100/2 to 167 all out in their first innings, West Indies were set a daunting target of 530 runs — or two full days of batting — to survive. Against all expectations, the Caribbean side fought through every session, eventually finishing on 457/6 in 163.3 overs, their longest-ever fourth-innings effort since 1930 and the highest total ever recorded by West Indies in a time-bound Test’s final innings.
The Record-Breaking Partnership
Greaves shared an extraordinary unbroken 180-run stand with No. 8 batter Kemar Roach — a world-record seventh-wicket partnership that eclipsed the 35-year-old mark previously held by Sachin Tendulkar and Manoj Prabhakar. Their resistance stretched across 409 balls, frustrating the New Zealand attack for the entire final day.
Shai Hope’s Courageous 140
Earlier, Greaves found an ideal ally in Shai Hope, who battled an eye infection to score a resilient 140. The duo’s 196-run partnership laid the foundation for West Indies’ great escape, turning what seemed a hopeless chase into an epic of endurance.
New Zealand’s Agony and Misfortune
New Zealand’s hopes faded as key pacers Matt Henry and Nathan Smith both suffered injuries, reducing the hosts’ bowling options. To compound matters, all three DRS reviews were exhausted before the final session, leaving them powerless in marginal calls. Off-spinner Michael Bracewell toiled for 55 overs and came agonizingly close to dismissing Roach twice, but fortune deserted him.
The Sensible Stand
At one stage, with West Indies 398/6 and 132 runs needed off 33 overs, talk of an improbable victory briefly surfaced. However, Greaves and Roach chose caution over risk, defending resolutely to ensure safety instead of glory.
Match Summary:
New Zealand: 231 & 466/8 declared
West Indies: 167 & 457/6 (Justin Greaves 202*, Shai Hope 140, Kemar Roach 58; Jacob Duffy 3/122)
Result: Match drawnThe contest will be remembered as a classic example of resilience and belief — a triumph of temperament that revived the spirit of Test cricket.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
