Conway, Latham’s record stand gives New Zealand head start in third West Indies Test

MOUNT MAUNGANUI: Openers Devon Conway and Tom Latham registered a record-breaking partnership to help New Zealand seize control of the third Test against West Indies on the opening day here at the Bay Oval. Hosts’ captain Latham’s decision to bat first bore fruit as he, alongside Conway, toiled West Indies bowlers with respective centuries and batted for more than 86 overs to give their side a flying start.

The opening pair batted with utmost domination and put together 323 runs during their marathon partnership, which is now the second-highest for New Zealand in Tests, only behind Glenn Turner and Terry Jarvis, who put up 378 also against West Indies in Georgetown in 1972. The monumental stand was also the highest opening partnership in New Zealand, surpassing the previous best of 278, recorded twice in 1930 and 1999.

After 86.3 overs of misery, Kemar Roach eventually broke the shackles for West Indies, getting rid of Latham, who walked back after scoring 137 off 246 deliveries, laced with 15 fours and a six. Conway, who dominated the sensational stand, remained immovable and returned unbeaten on 178 off 279 deliveries, studded with 25 deliveries. “I’m pretty grateful to be part of that partnership,” Conway said of his stand with Latham “A lot of credit needs to go to Tom with the way he played. “Quite often throughout that partnership, he just reminded me about looking straight, you know, be there, be present, don’t look too far ahead.”

The 34-year-old opener will resume New Zealand’s first innings on day two from 334/1 alongside nightwatchman Jacob Duffy, who has made nine off 16 deliveries. It is pertinent to mention that the home side lead the three-match series 1-0, courtesy of a nine-wicket victory in the second fixture in Wellington. Web Desk