Justin Greaves’ Stunning 202 Secures Dramatic Draw in Christchurch

Justin Greaves’ unbeaten 202 inspired a remarkable West Indies escape in Christchurch, securing an unlikely draw against New Zealand. Greaves and No. 8 Kemar Roach delivered a historic stand, batting through an incredible 409 balls to defy the hosts. Their resistance powered West Indies to the highest fourth-innings total ever recorded in a timed Test, turning a near-certain defeat into a memorable show of grit and determination.

Justin Greaves’ Brilliant 202* Powers West Indies to an Unlikely Draw in Christchurch

In one of the most dramatic finishes in recent Test cricket, Justin Greaves produced a heroic unbeaten 202 to rescue the West Indies and deliver an unexpected draw against New Zealand in Christchurch. What began as a near-certain defeat turned into a remarkable display of grit and determination at Hagley Oval.

A Match That Slipped Away — And Then Returned

New Zealand dominated most of the contest, posting strong totals and tightening its grip early. West Indies, bowled out cheaply in the first innings, were left staring at a huge fourth-innings chase that appeared well beyond reach. With more than 500 runs needed and nearly two days of batting ahead, survival looked improbable.

But cricket often writes the most surprising stories — and this time, Greaves held the pen.

Greaves, Hope, and Roach Script an Epic Fightback

Greaves walked in under intense pressure and rarely looked troubled. His calm approach partnered perfectly with Shai Hope, who scored a steady 140 and helped steady the innings. Their partnership laid the foundation, but the real twist arrived when Kemar Roach joined Greaves late in the day.

What followed was one of the finest lower-order stands in the history of West Indies cricket. Roach defended bravely, rotated the strike smartly, and allowed Greaves to continue building. Together, they blocked, battled, and blunted New Zealand for hours, turning frustration into fatigue for the home bowlers.

Their long partnership not only frustrated New Zealand but also pushed the West Indies to a record fourth-innings total, rewriting the match's script entirely.

A Double Century to Remember

Justin Greaves’ unbeaten double hundred will be remembered as one of the most composed rescue acts by a West Indies batter in foreign conditions. He faced everything New Zealand threw at him — swing, spin, short balls, and relentless pressure — yet never lost focus.

His innings was defined by patience early on, confident stroke play in the middle, and smart strike management during the final overs. It was a rare combination of temperament and technique, especially for a player still carving out his place on the international stage.

A Draw That Feels Like a Victory

For New Zealand, the result was a missed opportunity after dominating most of the Test. For the West Indies, it was a moment of pride — a reminder of the team’s resilience and ability to push back even in the toughest conditions.

Most importantly, it was a day that belonged to Justin Greaves. His double century didn’t just save a Test match; it restored belief, lifted spirits, and delivered a performance that will be talked about for years.

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