Kavem Hodge achieved his second Test century, playing an instrumental role as the West Indies displayed solid batting on the third day of the third Test against New Zealand. Hodge concluded the day unbeaten on 109, while Anderson Phillip added 12 runs, propelling the team to 381-6, thereby avoiding the follow-on after responding to New Zealand’s 575-8.
The West Indies had to contend without Shai Hope, the first Test century-maker, who missed two days due to illness. New Zealand currently leads the three-match series 1-0, following a drawn first Test and a convincing nine-wicket win in the second.
Hodge, who scored 120 against England in July 2024, faced difficulties in crossing the 50-run mark in the subsequent 16 innings. He batted for over three and a half hours, reaching his century off 224 deliveries with a pull shot directed at Michael Rae. “I’m grateful and happy to contribute to the team,” Hodge expressed. “I focused on understanding conditions in New Zealand and working out a plan.”
He entered the crease following John Campbell's dismissal in the second over and established vital partnerships: a 66-run stand with Tevin Imlach (27), a 61-run partnership with Alick Athanaze (45), and an 81-run collaboration with Justin Greaves (43). Hodge skillfully managed New Zealand's spinners, and handled the pace attack confidently, particularly on the leg side.
Prior to his innings, Brandon King tallied 63 runs while John Campbell contributed 45, forming a 111-run opening partnership, marking their first century stand together and the sixth for West Indies in 11 years. Campbell was caught at second slip by Tom Latham off Jacob Duffy, while King fell victim to Duffy's late-swinging delivery.
New Zealand continued to claim wickets as the pitch slowed and developed cracks. Daryl Mitchell and Ajaz Patel swiftly dismissed Greaves and Roston Chase (2), with Patel claiming his 86th Test wicket and first in New Zealand.
Just before stumps, the West Indies breached the 375-mark, surpassing the follow-on threshold. It is anticipated that New Zealand will refrain from enforcing the follow-on, having opted to bat first to avoid batting last on a deteriorating pitch.
The West Indies demonstrated resilience akin to their second innings in the first Test, maintaining long and steady batting against a formidable New Zealand total.
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