The third Test between New Zealand and West Indies at Mount Maunganui has turned into a gripping contest. New Zealand, batting first, declared their innings at 575 for 8 on Day 2.

The highlight of their innings was a monumental 323-run opening partnership between Tom Latham and Devon Conway, with Latham scoring 137 and Conway registering a double century of 227.

West Indies openers responded well, reaching 110 without loss by the close of play, while a new world record was created in New Zealand cricket.

Latham and Conway rewrite history

After winning the toss, New Zealand opted to bat first - a decision that paid off handsomely. Captain Tom Latham and Devon Conway dominated the West Indies bowlers throughout the innings.

Latham was dismissed in the last over of Day 1 for 137, but not before the pair established a record-breaking 323-run stand for the first wicket.

This is New Zealand’s second-highest partnership in Test history and the largest opening stand in 54 years, making them the most successful opening pair in the nation’s Test cricket history. Conway continued on Day 2 to reach his double century, hitting 31 fours along the way.

323 Run opening partnership!!

Tom Latham & Devon Convoy snitched the Second-Highest Opening Stand for NZ vs WI #NZvWI pic.twitter.com/B5V3qn6wCi

— Syed Jaffer Imam🇮🇳 (@syedjaffer_imam) December 18, 2025

World record in New Zealand

Alongside Conway and Latham, Rachin Ravindra contributed an unbeaten 72 runs. Following New Zealand’s declaration, the West Indies openers - John Campbell and Brandon King - countered aggressively, ending Day 2 at 110 without loss, with Campbell on 45 and King on 55.

This match created a historic first in cricket: for the first time ever in New Zealand Test cricket, both opening pairs in the first innings of a match posted century partnerships. This unprecedented feat has set a new world record, marking a remarkable moment in Test cricket history.