Rachin Ravindra’s sublime 176 and Tom Latham’s authoritative 145 put New Zealand firmly in control on Day 3 in Christchurch, turning a slender 64-run lead into a commanding 481-run advantage over West Indies.
The highlight was their third-wicket stand of 279, New Zealand’s highest against West Indies since 1987, which effectively flattened any hopes of a thrilling third day. West Indies were left frustrated as missed chances haunted them throughout Ravindra’s innings, with Kemar Roach, Kavem Hodge, and others all letting sharp opportunities slip.
Ravindra survived early jitters from multiple dropped catches to play with elegance and authority, racing to 176 before falling to an Ojay Shields yorker late in the day. Latham complemented him perfectly, punishing a tired attack with crisp cuts, pulls, and inventive paddle-scoops to reach his century.
Earlier, Devon Conway and Williamson laid a solid platform, but West Indies’ bowlers created little reward for their early spells due to lapses in catching and discipline. Despite some late wickets, New Zealand’s dominance remained unchallenged.
With the hosts closing on 417 for 4 in their second innings, West Indies now face a near-impossible task to avoid defeat, with the Hagley Oval record chase of 285 looming as a distant target.
