Unexpected Drama as Hope–Greaves Revive West Indies in Christchurch

At the close of the third day, New Zealand had firm control of the Christchurch Test. Their dominance extended early into the fourth morning, and with West Indies collapsing to 72 for 4 while chasing 531, the match seemed destined for an early finish.

John Campbell fell in the 13th over, and in the very next over, Tejnaraine Chanderpaul edged behind off Jacob Duffy. Shortly afterwards, Alick Athanaze and Roston Chase were removed by Matt Henry and Michael Bracewell, leaving the visitors struggling at 72 for 4.

What followed was a dramatic twist. Shai Hope and Justin Greaves combined composure with determination to build an unbroken 140-run partnership. Hope crafted a superb 116 off 132 balls, while Greaves contributed a resilient 55 off 143 deliveries. Their resistance frustrated New Zealand’s bowlers, who repeatedly probed for breakthroughs but found none.

Earlier in the day, New Zealand resumed on 417 and added only 49 runs while losing four wickets before declaring at 466, setting West Indies a record-breaking target. No team has ever chased 531 in Test cricket, and the highest successful chase remains 418.

As the Test enters its final day, the key question is how long Hope and Greaves can continue their stand. West Indies still require 319 runs with six wickets intact. The possibility of a historic chase or a late New Zealand surge keeps the outcome intriguingly poised.

Score Summary

—End of Day Four

AJ