NZ vs WI, Day 3: West Indies’ resilient response led by Kavem Hodge
Hodge’s stoic century on Day 3 was the pinnacle of West Indies’ struggle after New Zealand’s early breakthroughs. Resuming his innings on 94, Hodge continued to weather the storm and showed remarkable patience and skill to reach his hundred off 224 balls. His knock included 13 boundaries and was a crucial effort for West Indies, who were under pressure for most of the day. Hodge’s resistance helped keep the innings steady after the key wickets fell earlier in the day, with the West Indies at 351/6 when drinks were taken.
The collaboration between Hodge and Anderson Filipwhich has now reached 12 runs will be crucial as West Indies look to extend their innings on Day 4. The pair will be tasked with helping their side pass 400 runs, with the aim now being to minimize further damage in a bid to give their bowlers a chance. Hodge’s ability to keep the scoreboard ticking despite the challenges posed by the New Zealand bowlers has given the West Indies a glimmer of hope in this challenging Test.
Kavem Hodge brings out a battleground for West Indies đź’Ş#NZvWI pic.twitter.com/LhTaSA3xKN
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 20, 2025
READ also: Top 5 highest opening partnerships for New Zealand in Tests ft. Devon Conway & Tom Latham
NZ vs WI, Day 3: New Zealand’s bowlers struggle to break through
The New Zealand bowlers found it challenging to break West Indies’ resistance on Day 3 despite making early breakthroughs. West Indies reached 150 runs in 39.1 overs that day, with Hodge and Alick Athanaze combined for a stable partnership of 50 companies. The momentum changed slightly when New Zealand took the second new ball with 80.1 overs, but the West Indian duo fought back and added a crucial 50 runs in 84 balls.
Despite having a significant first innings lead, the New Zealand bowlers, including Ajaz Patel And Daryl Mitchellstruggled to make consistent breakthroughs. The New Zealand spinners tried to control the run flow but the determined stance of Hodge and Phillip kept them at bay. With six wickets in hand, West Indies will look to Hodge to continue his good innings and try to reduce the deficit in what looks to be an even match heading into Day 4.
A fighting effort from West Indies keeps the match in the balance 💪🏏#NZvWI pic.twitter.com/HllapxY1yW
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 20, 2025
READ also: Fans react as Devon Conway and Tom Latham’s three-century opening stand for New Zealand dismantles the West Indies bowling attack on Day 1 of Mount Maunganui Test
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