Day 4 of the first Test in Christchurch delivered a mix of dominance, determination, and patience as New Zealand strengthened their grip on the match, while the West Indies fought hard through an exceptional century from Shai Hope.

New Zealand Extend First-Innings Total

New Zealand resumed their innings and continued to pile on the runs, eventually reaching 450 in 105.2 overs, with 23 extras adding to the tally. The West Indies bowlers remained persistent and challenged several decisions, including a successful review in Over 106.2, where bowler's review resulted in the dismissal of MJ Henry, upheld by umpire PR Reiffel.

The innings were closed at 466/8 in 109 overs, with ZG Foulkes unbeaten on 11* to close a strong batting performance by the hosts.

West Indies Begin Their Second Innings

After the innings break, West Indies walked out to bat before lunch. JD Campbell 11 and Tagenarine Chanderpaul 5 took the side to 20/0 in 11 overs by lunch. Notably, Tom Latham took the wicketkeeping gloves in place of the injured Tom Blundell at the start of the West Indies second innings.

However, the visitors struggled to build momentum after the break. They reached 50 in 22.5 overs, but New Zealand's bowlers struck regularly, reducing them to 64/3 at drinks in the 25th over. Hope stood firm with 30 while Roston Chase was on 4.

Hope Fights Back with a Brilliant Century

The early setbacks notwithstanding, Shai Hope played one of his finest Test innings. He reached a well-compiled fifty off 72 balls, striking 9 boundaries. West Indies moved to 100/3 in 37.6 overs, and at tea, they were 107/4, with Hope on 57 and JP Greaves supporting well with 16.

Hope and Greaves then built an important partnership for the fifth wicket. Their first 50 runs came in 93 balls, and the stand crossed 100 runs off 173 balls, to give much-needed stability to West Indies.

Hope reached a superb century off 139 balls, decorated with 14 fours and a six, holding the innings together with grit and class.

Greaves also brought up his 50 off 123 balls, playing a steady and composed knock to keep New Zealand at bay.

West Indies Finish the Day Well

West Indies continued to resist despite New Zealand pushing hard for breakthroughs. New Zealand reviewed against Hope in **Over 72.5**, but it was struck down.
The visitors attained key milestones through the evening session:
150 runs in 53.1 overs

180/4 at drinks (58 overs)

200 runs in 66.6 overs
They eventually closed the day at 212/4 in 74 overs

At stumps:

Shai Hope remained unbeaten on a magnificent 116,
JP Greaves was solid at 55

End of Day Summary The West Indies have shown tremendous fight, largely thanks to Hope's brilliant century and Greaves' resilience. New Zealand is still in a commanding position in this match, yet the visitors have kept themselves alive with a strong middle-order stand. Stumps, Day 4: West Indies – 212/4 (74 overs) Hope 116*, Greaves 55 It is going to be a tense and exciting final day as West Indies look to extend the fight and New Zealand push for a win.