New Zealand moved up to second place on the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table after sealing a commanding victory against the West Indies in the third and final Test of the series.
The Black Caps wrapped up a comprehensive 323-run win at Bay Oval, completing a 2-0 series sweep and boosting their position in the WTC standings.
New Zealand dominated the contest from start to finish. They piled on 575 for 8 declared in the first innings, powered by Devon Conway’s superb double century and strong support from Tom Latham and Rachin Ravindra. In the second innings, the hosts again batted aggressively, declaring at 306 for 2 after centuries from Latham and Conway.
In response, the West Indies showed resistance in patches but failed to keep up with the pressure. Despite a fighting century from Kavem Hodge in the first innings, they were eventually bowled out cheaply in the second, unable to survive the challenging fifth-day conditions.
Latest ICC World Test Championship Points Table
Rank
Team
Played
Won
Lost
Drawn
Points
Win%
1
Australia
6
6
0
0
72
100.00
2
New Zealand
3
2
0
1
36
77.78
3
South Africa
4
3
1
0
36
75.00
4
Sri Lanka
2
1
0
1
16
66.67
5
Pakistan
2
1
1
0
12
50.00
6
India
9
4
4
1
52
48.15
7
England
8
2
5
1
26
27.08
8
Bangladesh
2
0
1
1
4
16.67
9
West Indies
8
0
7
1
4
4.17
The match may also mark the end of an era, with uncertainty surrounding Kane Williamson’s future in home Tests. While New Zealand celebrated a dominant win and a successful series, questions remain about what lies ahead for their veteran batter.
For now, the Black Caps will enjoy a well-earned rise in the WTC standings after a performance that showcased their all-round strength.
