New Zealand surged ahead in the first Test against West Indies after centuries by Rachin Ravindra and Tom Latham. At stumps on day three in Christchurch, they led by 481 runs. Latham scored 145 while Ravindra followed with 176, putting New Zealand in a commanding position.
The pair added 279 runs for the third wicket before Latham fell, followed shortly by Ravindra. Will Young was 21 and Michael Bracewell six, leaving New Zealand 417-4 in their second innings. The team now looks poised to dominate, needing only to build on their strong foundation.
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Ravindra described his century as “a perfect day” despite surviving two dropped catches. He played aggressively, hitting 27 fours and one six off 185 balls. Latham’s methodical 145 runs came off 250 deliveries, contributing to his milestone of 6,000 Test runs.
West Indies coach Floyd Reifer remained optimistic, noting the improving batting pitch. He urged his team to take the game session by session and highlighted the chance for big individual scores to spark a comeback. Previously, the highest fourth-innings chase against New Zealand was 418-7 in 2003.
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Earlier, swing-friendly conditions favored bowlers, but the pitch flattened under sunshine. West Indies gave away 23 extras, including 11 wides. Kemar Roach took 2-61, and Ojay Shields had 2-64, including Ravindra’s wicket. The match now heavily favors New Zealand heading into day four.