New Zealand Vs West Indies Highlights, 3rd Test Day 1: Record Conway-Latham Opening Stand Puts Black Caps On Top

New Zealand marched to a commanding position on the first day of the third and final Test against West Indies at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Thursday (December 18, 2025).

Captain Tom Latham capitalized big time on his decision to bat first after winning the toss, stitching together a historic 323-run partnership with opening partner Devon Conway. The Black Caps stood at 334 for 1 at stumps, with Conway on 178 not out and nightwatchman Jacob Duffy on 9 not out. Latham scored 137 runs off 246 balls.

By the 72nd over, Latham and Conway created the record for the highest opening partnership in New Zealand (277/0), and 300 was up in 79.5 overs: 125 (228) for Latham and 165 (253) for Conway. Latham and Conway have now compiled 1721 runs as an opening pair in Tests in 43 innings, making them the most successful Kiwi opening pair in the longest format.

The three-match series between New Zealand and the West Indies is into its final game with the hosts leading 1-0.

Catch the scorecard and ball-by-ball commentary from the 3rd NZ vs WI Test:

The series has been a mix of long battles and quick finishes. In the 1st Test in Christchurch, the West Indies pulled off an incredible escape. The Kiwis had set a massive target of 531, but the visitors managed to hold on for a draw. Justin Greaves was the hero with his double century as he batted for a very long time to save the match.

The second Test at the Basin Reserve was much more one-sided. New Zealand’s bowlers were too strong for the West Indies batters. Jacob Duffy was the standout player for the Kiwis as he took five wickets to help bowl the Windies out for just 128. New Zealand went on to win easily by 9 wickets and take the lead.

In the WTC points table, New Zealand have climbed to joint-third place, tied with Sri Lanka at a points percentage of 66.67%. Meanwhile, the West Indies are currently at the bottom of the table in 9th place with just 4.76%.

New Zealand Vs West Indies, 3rd Test: Playing XIs

West Indies: John Campbell, Brandon King, Kavem Hodge, Shai Hope, Alick Athanaze, Roston Chase (c), Justin Greaves, Tevin Imlach(w), Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Anderson Phillip

New Zealand: Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Zakary Foulkes, Ajaz Patel, Jacob Duffy, Michael Rae

New Zealand Vs West Indies, 3rd Test: Live Streaming

The 3rd and series concluding Test between New Zealand and West Indies will be live streamed on the Sony LIV app/website as well as the Sony Sports Network on TV screens.