In a display of resilient batting, West Indies openers Brandon King and John Campbell provided a much-needed response for their team on day two of the third Test against New Zealand at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The Caribbean duo remained unbeaten with 55 and 45 runs respectively, guiding their team to 110 without loss at stumps on December 19.
This strong opening stand came after New Zealand declared their first innings at a formidable 575 for eight, having dominated the crease for nearly two full days. The hosts’ innings was highlighted by Devon Conway’s magnificent 227 runs from 367 deliveries, marking his second double-century in Test cricket. Conway’s marathon innings finally ended when he was trapped lbw by Justin Greaves, who led the West Indies bowling attack with figures of two for 83.
New Zealand’s batting lineup demonstrated depth and consistency throughout their innings. Captain Tom Latham contributed a solid 137 runs, while Rachin Ravindra remained not out on 72. The Black Caps’ lower order showed aggressive intent before the declaration, with Ajaz Patel contributing a quickfire 30 from just 30 balls.
Despite New Zealand’s commanding position with a 465-run lead, the West Indies opening partnership provided hope for the visitors. The Jamaican pair combined for 16 boundaries in just 23 overs, offering the first substantial resistance from the Caribbean side in the match. Their unbroken century stand gives West Indies a foundation to build upon when play resumes, though they face the considerable challenge of overcoming New Zealand’s massive total amid the absence of white-ball captain Shai Hope, who missed the day’s play due to illness.