Daijiworld Media Network – Christchurch

Christchurch, Dec 2: New Zealand clawed their way back into the contest after a dramatic top-order collapse, ending a rain-hit opening day at 231 for 9 against West Indies at the Hagley Oval on Tuesday. A crucial 52-run seventh-wicket stand between Michael Bracewell and Nathan Smith steadied the innings after the hosts slipped to 148 for 6 on a seam-friendly surface.

Winning the toss under overcast skies, West Indies captain Roston Chase chose to bowl first, relying on both the green pitch and the venue’s proven history. His judgment was instantly rewarded when Kemar Roach, returning to Test cricket after nearly a year, struck in his first over. Devon Conway edged one behind to Justin Greaves at second slip, departing for a duck just three balls into the match.

Only 10.3 overs of play were possible before lunch as rain repeatedly interrupted the session, allowing New Zealand to crawl to just 17 runs. After play resumed, Kane Williamson shifted gears, collecting boundaries off Johann Layne and showcasing his trademark soft hands on a tricky surface. But debutant Ojay Shields’ early nerves spared New Zealand twice — first with a no-ball that Latham dispatched for four, and later when Williamson was bowled off another overstep.

Greaves, however, restored control with a brilliant spell after lunch, removing both Williamson and Latham in successive overs. Jayden Seales then struck from around the wicket to castle Rachin Ravindra, while Layne picked up his maiden Test wicket as Will Young edged to second slip. Shields added to New Zealand’s problems by dismissing Tom Blundell, who inside-edged onto his stumps.

At 120 for 5, the hosts were in danger of being bowled out cheaply. Bracewell and Smith then came together to stabilise the innings. Bracewell attacked anything loose, while Smith dug in with solid defence. Their partnership pushed New Zealand past 200 before Chase broke through, sending Smith back with a flick straight to short midwicket.

Sensing the dwindling batting resources, Bracewell attempted to accelerate but fell for 47, miscuing a pull to give Shields his second wicket. Matt Henry was bounced out by Roach soon after, and Jacob Duffy took a blow to the helmet, prompting a concussion test. As light faded, umpires called off play, bringing an early end to a day that saw just 70 overs.

With West Indies conceding 23 extras — potentially game-changing in bowler-friendly conditions — both teams head into day two with the contest evenly balanced.