In a compelling display of pace bowling under overcast conditions, the West Indies cricket team seized control on a rain-interrupted first day of the opening Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on December 2, 2025. The visitors’ decision to bowl first proved immediately rewarding as veteran pacer Kemar Roach struck in the very first over, dismissing Devon Conway for a duck with a catch at second slip.
The New Zealand innings struggled to gain momentum throughout the day, eventually stuttering to 231 for nine at stumps. Captain Kane Williamson provided the most substantial resistance with a composed 52, while Michael Bracewell contributed a valuable 47. Their efforts, however, were consistently undermined by a disciplined West Indian bowling attack that capitalized on favorable swinging conditions.
Jamaican debutant Ojay Shields emerged as a standout performer, claiming two crucial wickets for 34 runs in an impressive introduction to Test cricket. His first Test wicket came when he clean-bowled Tom Blundell for 29, this time avoiding the no-ball that had earlier denied him Williamson’s wicket. All-rounder Justin Greaves provided excellent support with two wickets for 35 runs, including the prized scalp of Williamson shortly after he reached his half-century.
The day’s proceedings concluded dramatically when last man Jacob Duffy was struck on the helmet by a Roach bouncer, prompting the umpires to suspend play due to deteriorating light conditions. With Shields, Greaves, and Roach leading the attack, the West Indies will resume day two in a commanding position, needing just one wicket to conclude the New Zealand innings.