Justin Greaves’ Historic 202* Leads West Indies to an Unbelievable Draw in Christchurch

In one of the most dramatic finishes in recent Test cricket history, the West Indies produced a stunning escape in Christchurch, powered by Justin Greaves’ monumental unbeaten 202 and a record-breaking partnership with Kemar Roach. What seemed like a certain New Zealand victory turned into a heroic draw, rewriting multiple records and redefining resilience in Test cricket.

A Match That Seemed Lost

New Zealand dominated the early part of the Test, setting West Indies a colossal fourth-innings target of 531 runs. After being bowled out for just 167 in their first innings, the visitors were expected to fold again. By the start of Day 5, West Indies still had a mountain ahead, and New Zealand needed only six wickets to clinch the win.

However, what followed was one of the greatest rearguard efforts in West Indies’ Test history.

Justin Greaves Creates History

Justin Greaves, batting at No. 6, delivered the innings of his life. His unbeaten 202 came from 388 balls, filled with patience, discipline, and flawless temperament. This innings made him the first player in Test history to score a double century in the fourth innings while batting at No. 6 or below.

Greaves’ knock was not just about survival. It was technically assured, mentally commanding, and strategically perfect. He played the long game, rotated strike intelligently, punished bad deliveries, and never lost composure despite relentless pressure.

This innings immediately enters the pantheon of the greatest fourth-innings performances ever recorded.

The Roach-Greaves Stand: A Record for the Ages

As significant as Greaves’ heroics were, they would not have been possible without Kemar Roach’s extraordinary support. Known primarily as a fast bowler, Roach delivered one of the best defensive innings of his career, scoring an unbeaten 58 off 233 balls.

Together, Greaves and Roach stitched an unbroken 180-run partnership, breaking a 35-year-old world record for the highest partnership by a No. 6 and lower-order batsman in the fourth innings of a Test. This stand also surpassed the long-standing partnership record once held by Sachin Tendulkar and Manoj Prabhakar.

Their effort deflated New Zealand’s attack, who tried everything—short balls, spin variations, seam movement—but could not break through.

A Fourth Innings for the History Books

West Indies finished at 457 for 6, batting an immense 163.3 overs in the final innings—one of the longest fourth-innings efforts seen in modern cricket. This total ranks among the highest fourth-innings scores ever recorded.

The statistical highlights of this escape include:

• One of the longest fourth-innings batting efforts in West Indies history.
• One of the highest fourth-innings totals in a drawn Test.
• A historic double century under extreme pressure.
• A record-breaking Roach-Greaves partnership, surpassing legendary names.
• A psychological victory, proving the team’s endurance and grit.

Sehwag and Experts Applaud West Indies

Former players and cricket experts praised the West Indies for their discipline and strategic clarity. Many pointed out that this match demonstrated the classic beauty of Test cricket: patience, resilience, and mental strength.

Analysts said that West Indies’ approach reflected proper Test match strategy—prioritising partnerships, resisting pressure, and extending sessions to wear down the bowlers.

What This Result Means

For West Indies, this draw is more than a statistical achievement. It is a statement of character.

• It shows a new generation willing to fight deep into a match.
• It boosts their standing in the World Test Championship.
• It provides much-needed confidence after years of inconsistent Test performances.

For Test cricket, this match is a reminder of why the format is unparalleled. No other form of cricket can provide such drama stretched across five days, ending in a finish that feels as thrilling as a victory.

Final Word

The Christchurch Test will be remembered as one of the greatest escapes in West Indies cricket history. Justin Greaves’ unbeaten 202 and Kemar Roach’s defiant 58 not out created a miracle that few could have predicted.

A match that began with New Zealand’s dominance ended in one of the most unforgettable draws the format has seen.

A historic stand.
A heroic double century.
A reminder that Test cricket still produces magic.