West Indies frustrate New Zealand to draw first Test
Justin Greaves scored a Test career-high 202 not out as West Indies made the second-highest fourth-innings total in history to earn a draw with New Zealand in the series opener in Christchurch.
West Indies had been skittled for just 167 in their first innings and were set an imposing target of 531 – 113 more than the highest successful Test chase – after New Zealand declared on 466-8, but valiantly stood firm for the best part of two days.
Greaves faced 388 balls and batted for 564 minutes for his second Test century and compiled a resilient 180-run seventh-wicket stand with Kemar Roach, who posted a career-high 58, before New Zealand captain Tom Latham shook hands with West Indies 457-6.
Coming in with his side 72-4 on day four, Greaves combined with captain Shai Hope for a 196-run fifth-wicket stand off 384 deliveries.
Hope (140 off 234) and wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach fell in quick succession shortly before lunch on day five but Greaves found the perfect partner in Roach.
The bowler, who had taken a five-wicket haul in New Zealand’s second innings, scored his maiden Test half-century and crucially withstood 233 deliveries as they negotiated the remainder of the day.