The West Indies are facing an uphill climb heading into the fourth and penultimate day of the first Test against New Zealand, with the hosts commanding every inch of the contest at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

New Zealand will resume this evening, Jamaica time, firmly in control at 417 for 4, holding a massive overall lead of 481 runs with six second-innings wickets still in hand. At the crease are Will Young on 21 and Michael Bracewell on 6, both set to build on an already imposing position.

Day three belonged entirely to the Black Caps, who tightened their grip through two superb centuries that flattened the Caribbean bowling attack after resuming on 32 without loss. Captain Tom Latham produced a composed 145, striking 12 boundaries during his 250-ball stay. At the other end, Rachin Ravindra unfurled a dominant 176, blasting 27 fours and a six in a sparkling 185-ball innings.

The pair combined for a mammoth 279-run stand for the third wicket, a partnership that broke the back of the West Indies’ efforts and pushed the match decisively in New Zealand’s favour.

With the ball, the visitors found little joy. Veteran seamer Kemar Roach finished with 2 for 61, while Jamaican debutante Ojay Shields continued to impress, collecting 2 for 64 in only his second outing in Test cricket.

Scores heading into Day 4:
New Zealand 231 & 417 for 4
West Indies 167