Fri Dec 05 22:50:00 UTC 2025: Hope Century Keeps West Indies Hopeful Despite Daunting Chase in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand – Shai Hope’s unbeaten century and a resilient half-century from Justin Greaves have injected a glimmer of hope into the West Indies camp on Day 4 of the second Test against New Zealand in Christchurch. Facing a mammoth chase of 531 after New Zealand declared their second innings at 466/8, the West Indies closed the day at 212/4, trailing by 319 runs.

New Zealand resumed their second innings on Day 4 from an overnight score of 417/4, adding a quick 49 runs before declaring. Kemar Roach starred with the ball for the West Indies, completing a five-wicket haul (5-78).

The West Indies’ chase got off to a rocky start, slumping to 72/4 in the middle session. Jacob Duffy struck twice, removing both openers John Campbell and Tagenarine Chanderpaul. However, Hope and Greaves then forged a crucial 140-run partnership that spanned over a session and a half, defying the New Zealand attack and showcasing the Caribbean side’s fighting spirit.

Hope, in particular, was impressive, reaching his seventh Test century off 139 balls. Greaves provided valuable support, reaching his half-century as the pair grew in confidence.

Earlier in the day, New Zealand’s declaration came after Rachin Ravindra (176) and Tom Latham (145) had laid the foundation for a dominant second innings.

With one day remaining, the West Indies face a Herculean task to save the Test match. However, the performance of Hope and Greaves has given them a fighting chance and a reason to believe as they head into Day 5.

Brief Scores:

  • New Zealand: 231 & 466/8 decl. (Rachin Ravindra 176, Tom Latham 145; Kemar Roach 5-78)
  • West Indies: 167 & 212/4 (Shai Hope 116*, Justin Greaves 55*; Jacob Duffy 2-65)

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