NZ Openers Make Test History with Centuries Each in Both Innings

New Zealand’s Tom Latham and Devon Conway have etched their names in the history books, becoming the first-ever opening batters of a side to hit centuries in both innings of a Test match. Their impressive feat has paved the way for New Zealand’s likely victory in the third Test against the West Indies, with the visitors requiring 419 runs with 10 wickets remaining on the final day.

Unprecedented Partnership

Latham and Conway’s 192-run second innings partnership was a masterclass display of batting prowess, as they guided New Zealand to a declaration at 306-2. Latham’s decision to declare with a lead of 461 runs has put the West Indies under immense pressure, with the visitors struggling to cope with the inconsistent bounce on the pitch.

First-Innings Dominance

In the first innings, Latham and Conway shared a 323-run opening stand, which laid the foundation for New Zealand’s massive total of 587-8. Conway’s impressive knock of 227 was complemented by Latham’s 137, as they became the first pair in Tests to achieve a triple century and century partnership in the same match.

Double Century and Century in the Same Test

Conway’s second innings century took his total to 101, making him the 10th player and first New Zealander to score a double century and century in the same Test. Latham’s 101 in the second innings emulated his father Rod, who joined with Mark Greatbatch to make century opening partnerships in both innings of a Test against Zimbabwe in 1992.

Partnerships and Records

Conway and Latham’s partnerships in this Test produced 515 runs, surpassing any opening pair in a single match in all Test matches. Their impressive display has sent shockwaves throughout the cricketing world, as they have rewritten the history books with their unprecedented feat.

Coach’s Praise

New Zealand batting coach Luke Ronchi praised the duo’s hard work and dedication, saying, “I think all the work the guys have been doing for a while now is paying off the way they want. The mindset is where they want it to be, and the trust in their own game and the game plans against particular bowlers is coming off.”

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