New Zealand challenges West Indies to chase 531 runs on the 4th day of the 1st cricket test

CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand The West Indies faced a daunting challenge on the fourth day of the first cricket test against New Zealand, with a target of 531 runs to chase. By lunch, they were 20 without loss after 11 overs, with John Campbell on 11 and Tagenarine Chanderpaul on 5.

New Zealand had declared their second innings at 466 for 8, establishing a huge lead of 530 runs. Injuries to wicketkeeper Tom Blundell and all-rounder Nathan Smith prevented them from contributing to the batting effort. The hosts had resumed at 417 for 4, already leading by 481 runs, and chose to bat cautiously for an additional 14 overs rather than declaring immediately.

During this extended session, Will Young scored 23, Michael Bracewell 24, Matt Henry 8, Jacob Duffy 10, and Zak Foulkes remained unbeaten on 11. Kemar Roach was the standout bowler for the West Indies, taking 5 wickets for 78 runs, marking his 12th five-wicket haul in Tests. At 37, he became the oldest bowler to achieve this feat against New Zealand, bringing his career tally to 291 wickets, ranking him fifth on the West Indies all-time list.

New Zealands approach on Thursday appeared cautious, despite hot weather conditions expected later in the day, which might have favored an early deployment of their seamers. With Smith sidelined, greater responsibility will fall on Henry, Foulkes, and Duffy. The pitch at Hagley still offered assistance to bowlers, and the new ball produced notable bounce at times.

The West Indies batsmen faced some physical challenges as well. Chanderpaul was struck on the helmet by a delivery from Foulkes shortly before lunch, and Campbell was hit in the foot, limping visibly as the break approached.

Author: Gavin Porter