New Zealand’s openers Devon Conway and Tom Latham produced a breathtaking display of batting on day one of the third Test against the West Indies at Mount Maunganui, compiling a stunning 323-run partnership for the first wicket.

The stand, New Zealand’s second-highest opening partnership in Test history, showcased remarkable skill, patience, and concentration, leaving the visitors with a daunting task when they take to the crease.

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Historic Partnership for New Zealand

Conway and Latham’s partnership of 323 eclipsed all but one previous opening stand for New Zealand in Test cricket. Only Glenn Turner and Terry Jarvis’ 387-run partnership against the West Indies in Georgetown in 1972 surpasses their effort.

Spanning 86.4 overs, the partnership ranks as the joint 12th highest opening stand in men’s Test cricket globally and marks the eighth time New Zealand has recorded a 300-plus partnership for any wicket.

While New Zealand’s overall record partnership remains the 467-run third-wicket stand between Martin Crowe and Andrew Jones against Sri Lanka in Wellington in 1991, Conway and Latham’s performance firmly cements them among the nation’s greatest opening duos.

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Individual Brilliance: Conway and Latham

Devon Conway was the standout, compiling an unbeaten 178 runs off 279 balls, including 25 boundaries, in a display of remarkable resilience and timing. This marks his sixth Test century, consolidating his reputation as one of New Zealand’s premier batters.

Captain Tom Latham complemented Conway with a composed 137 runs from 246 balls, striking 15 fours and a six. Latham was fortunate to survive a drop on 104 by West Indies wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach before being dismissed by Kemar Roach. His 15th Test century demonstrated his consistency and leadership at the top of the order.

“It’s the best I’ve been part of. It was a good time out there,” Conway reflected.
“We had a discussion this morning about trying to bat big, bat well, and give the bowlers an opportunity to bowl in the fourth innings. It was a challenging morning session, particularly for me. They bowled really well. After lunch, the wicket eased a little, offering some good scoring opportunities for myself and Tom.”

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New Zealand Take Command of the Third Test

New Zealand closed day one at 334-1, with Conway remaining unbeaten alongside nightwatchman Jacob Duffy as they look to consolidate a commanding position. The performance reflects the team’s confidence and discipline at the top of the order and puts them in a strong position to extend their 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

The dominance displayed by Conway and Latham not only sets a foundation for a potentially large total but also underlines New Zealand’s growing strength in Test cricket. Their ability to bat long and frustrate the opposition highlights a strategic approach focused on building pressure and setting up a win.

Play resumes on Friday at 22:00 GMT (Thursday local time), with Conway and Duffy ready to continue their innings and put New Zealand firmly in control.