An unforgettable Test match concluded with an epic draw, as Justin Greaves smashed an unbeaten 202 and Kemar Roach added a determined 58 not out to guide the West Indies to 457/6 against New Zealand. This monumental fourth-innings total is the highest ever recorded in Test cricket history, a testament to the team’s fighting spirit. Greaves’ extraordinary double century, the seventh of its kind in a Test’s final innings, was the cornerstone of the West Indies’ remarkable recovery. His steadfast partnership with veteran bowler Kemar Roach, who registered his personal best score of 58*, proved vital on a flat Hagley Oval pitch. Roach, also aged 37, achieved a rare feat by taking 5/78 in the Kiwis’ second innings and scoring a half-century, becoming only the fourth player in history to do so in the same Test match. Earlier, Shai Hope’s impressive 140 laid the foundation for the record-breaking chase. Though the West Indies narrowly missed their target, falling 74 runs short of the all-time highest fourth-innings pursuit, their score stands as the second-highest ever. A critical decision went in favor of Roach when an umpire’s call, despite replays showing a possible edge, allowed him to continue his crucial vigil. The match saw significant bowling efforts from Jacob Duffy and Michael Bracewell, but ultimately, Greaves’ and Roach’s determination secured a memorable draw.
