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Bracewell, Smith Rescue New Zealand After West Indies Seamers Dominate Rain-hit Day 1
Debutant Ojay Shields: Michael Bracewell and Nathan Smith’s gritty 52-run stand for the seventh wicket ensured New Zealand ended a rain-hit opening day on level terms after a dramatic collapse in seam-friendly conditions at Hagley Oval. By stumps, the hosts had reached 231 for 9, recovering from a perilous 148 for 6 after Kane Williamson’s half-century laid the early foundation.
West Indies captain Roston Chase had no hesitation in bowling first after winning the toss, citing the heavy overhead conditions, a green-tinged pitch, and the venue’s history — only once in 15 Tests here has a captain chosen to bat first.
The decision paid off instantly. Kemar Roach, returning to Test cricket for the first time since January 2025, struck in his third ball. Operating around the wicket, he drew Devon Conway into a loose poke, and Justin Greaves accepted the edge at second slip. But the innings had barely begun when rain forced a 90-minute delay with only 3.3 overs bowled. Another shower truncated the first session to just 10.3 overs, during which New Zealand mustered only 17 runs.
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