Justin Greaves, Kemar Roach help West Indies salvage draw in first New Zealand Test

CHRISTCHURCH: All-rounder Justin Greaves and lower-order batter Kemar Roach led West Indies to a sensational stalemate against New Zealand in the first Test of the three-match series here at the Hagley Oval on Saturday.

The touring side, set a mammoth 531-run target, resumed their pursuit on the final day from 212/4 through ton-up Shai Hope and Greaves.

The overnight pair could stretch their fifth-wicket partnership to 196 as Jacob Duffy dismissed the centurion in the first session of the final day. Hope walked back after scoring 140 off 234 deliveries with the help of 15 fours and two sixes.

West Indies then suffered another setback to their batting expedition three overs later as wicketkeeper batter Tevin Imlach perished cheaply after scoring a nine-ball four.

His dismissal had reduced the touring side to 277/6 in pursuit of 531 and had New Zealand sniffing a massive victory in the series opener.

But Greaves, in collaboration with Roach, rained on New Zealand's parade by putting together an unbeaten 180-run partnership for the eighth wicket to prevent West Indies from succumbing to a crushing defeat.

Justin Greaves remained the top-scorer for West Indies with an unbeaten double century, making 202 not out from 388 deliveries with the help of 19 fours, while Roach remained unbeaten with a gutsy 58 off 233 deliveries.

Duffy was the standout bowler for New Zealand in the second innings with three wickets in 43 overs, while Matt Henry, Michael Bracewell and Foulkes could pick up one apiece.

After an enthralling draw in the opening fixture, the Test series between New Zealand and West Indies moves to Wellington, which will host the subsequent game from December 10.