NZ vs WI 1st Test Day 1 Highlights: Windies Seamers Stops NZ At 231/9

West Indies bowlers made a strong comeback on Day 1 of the first Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval. The hosts started off well. This match is New Zealand’s first game in the WTC 2025-27 cycle.  

Rain delays and cloudy skies interrupted play throughout the day. West Indies won the toss and opted to bowl first. New Zealand fought hard, finishing the day at 231/9. The seamers from West Indies played a key role, making important breakthroughs to keep the match competitive.

New Zealand vs West Indies 1st Test Day 1 Highlights

New Zealand came out to bat first on Day 1, with openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway taking the crease. However, the stand lasted only three balls as Kemar Roach struck early, dismissing Conway with a loose drive that went to second slip.

The innings steadied when Kane Williamson returned alongside Latham, scoring at a brisk pace. Play was soon halted by rain, causing a delay of over an hour. After the break, Williamson continued to dominate the Windies seam attack, reaching his 38th Test half-century with elegant stroke play.

West Indies fought back in the latter part of the day. Justin Greaves broke the partnership by dismissing Williamson, triggering a collapse in New Zealand’s middle order. Jayden Seales bowled Rachin Ravindra, and debutant Johann Layne accounted for Will Young. Tom Blundell and Michael Bracewell attempted to steady the innings, but Blundell fell to debutant Ojay Shields.

Michael Bracewell played a valuable innings of 47 in the lower middle order, guiding New Zealand past the 200-run mark alongside Nathan Smith, who contributed 23 before being dismissed by West Indies skipper Roston Chase. Bracewell’s resistance ended when debutant Ojay Shields claimed his second wicket, removing the last recognised Kiwi batter. Kemar Roach claimed the ninth wicket of the innings, dismissing Matt Henry, who was caught by Jayden Seales at deep square leg.

New Zealand finished Day 1 at 231/9, with bad light bringing play to a halt. Only 70 overs were bowled due to earlier rain interruptions, which shortened the day’s play.

Brief Scores – 1st Test, New Zealand vs West Indies , Day 1 (Dec 2‑6, 2025)
New Zealand 1st Innings: 231/9 (70 overs)

• Top Scores: Kane Williamson 52 (102), Michael Bracewell 47 (73)
• Best Bowling (WI): Ojay Shields 2/34, Justin Greaves 2/35