Overview
- New Zealand closed day one at 334-1 in Mount Maunganui with Devon Conway unbeaten on 178 and nightwatchman Jacob Duffy on 9 after Tom Latham fell late for 137.
- The 323-run partnership is New Zealand’s second-highest for the first wicket, the highest opening stand on New Zealand soil, and the best opening stand since the World Test Championship began.
- West Indies managed only one wicket as Kemar Roach removed Latham late in the day for figures of 1-63, reflecting a struggle to maintain pressure across sessions.
- A key chance went begging when wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach dropped Latham on 104, and Roach later left the field with a potential muscle issue reported as a concern.
- New Zealand recalled spinner Ajaz Patel for his first home Test in five years and reinstated keeper Tom Blundell, while West Indies brought in Alick Athanaze; the hosts lead the series 1-0 entering this decider.