New Zealand’s injury-hit bowling unit finally ended the long stand between Shai Hope and Justin Greaves on the final morning of the first Test Saturday, boosting their chances of securing a win over the West Indies.

Hope fell for 140 midway through the session, bringing to an end a 186-run partnership that had kept New Zealand wicketless for 64 overs across nearly three sessions. Greaves remained unbeaten on 97 at lunch, closing in on his second Test hundred, with Kemar Roach accompanying him on 12 as the visitors reached 295-6, still 235 runs behind.

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New Zealand appeared on course for a dominant victory on day four after setting a target of 531 and reducing the West Indies to 72-4. But Hope and Greaves resisted superbly, capitalizing on a depleted home attack missing Matt Henry and Nathan Smith due to injuries, and already without Tom Blundell. Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips, recovering from injuries, were required to field extensively.

Starting the day on 212-4, the West Indies pair handled the second new ball calmly, extending their stand. It took a short-pitched delivery from Jacob Duffy to finally dismiss Hope, who edged to Tom Latham after 234 balls with 15 fours and two sixes. Three overs later, Tevin Imlach fell lbw to Zak Foulkes, with his review upholding the on-field call.

Source: AP