The three-match Test series between New Zealand and West Indies heads into a decisive finale at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, with both sides still very much in contention as they prepare for the third and final Test starting on Thursday.
New Zealand lead the series 1-0 after a dominant nine-wicket victory in the second Test, a result that followed a dramatic draw in the opener, rescued by Justin Greaves’ sensational unbeaten double century in the West Indies’ second innings. While the visitors will be aiming to level the series 1-1, the Black Caps have a chance to secure a 2-0 win and add valuable points to their World Test Championship tally.
Black Caps Thrive Despite Injuries And Setbacks
New Zealand have been buoyed by their ability to absorb injuries and still find ways to win, showcasing depth, adaptability and resilience across both Tests.
Their batting has revolved around Devon Conway, with Kane Williamson providing experience and control, while debutant Mitchell Hay stepped in admirably behind the stumps in the absence of regular wicketkeeper Tom Blundell. Contributions from Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham and Daryl Mitchell have added stability, while Jacob Duffy has led the bowling attack impressively despite the absence of several frontline seamers, including Matt Henry and Blair Tickner.
Ajaz Patel Returns As Blundell Strengthens XI
The hosts have further bolstered their squad with the inclusion of spinner Ajaz Patel, while Blundell’s return from a hamstring injury adds both experience and balance ahead of the series decider. Patel’s most recent Test appearance came on the tour of India in 2024, where he claimed 11 wickets for 160 runs in a Player of the Match performance during New Zealand’s historic 3-0 series sweep.
Ajaz is someone we can trust to come in and do a job if required: Bay Oval has typically offered more turn than other surfaces around New Zealand, and the fact that he turns the ball away from the right-hander is very appealing. Bringing in another spinner also gives us more variance alongside our seamers, who have done a great job so far this series.
Blundell’s recovery has prompted a change in the squad, with Mitchell Hay released for domestic duties. “Tom has recovered very well from his hamstring tear, and we’re grateful to have someone of his calibre back in the side,” Walter added. “His experience is invaluable, especially with a few players relatively new to Test cricket. He’s a leader in the group, and we’re very pleased to see him back.”
West Indies Seek Consistency After Second-Test Setback
The West Indies, meanwhile, will be looking to rediscover the intensity that defined their performance in the opening Test. That match was built on grit and resolve from Shai Hope, Justin Greaves and Kemar Roach, but those standards slipped sharply in the second Test, which ended in a heavy defeat.
Hope has been the standout batter for the visitors, amassing 248 runs across four innings, with Greaves close behind on 240. However, a lack of support from the rest of the batting line-up has hurt their cause, leaving too much responsibility on a select few.
Visitors Chase Redemption Against History
For the West Indies to force a series draw, they will again rely on Hope’s stability, Greaves’ growing all-round influence and meaningful contributions from Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Kavem Hodge. With the ball, Roach and Ojay Shields will need to strike early to give the visitors a foothold in the match.
While the West Indies have shown they can produce individual performances of the highest quality, their challenge remains sustaining that intensity across all sessions. History also weighs heavily against them, with their last Test win in New Zealand dating back to 1995.
The final Test offers the visitors a chance at redemption, while New Zealand will be keen to overcome injury concerns once more and close out the series convincingly on home soil.
