Double centurion Justin Greaves, Kemar Roach help West Indies pull off heroic draw vs New Zealand in 1st Test

Kemar Roach & Justin Greaves

West Indies walked away with a draw that felt almost like a win, thanks to Greaves double century, Roach's composed half-century, and hours of determined batting against a strong New Zealand attack.

The West Indies produced one of their bravest escapes in recent Test match against New Zealand, battling for more than five hours on the final day to secure a fighting draw against New Zealand in the first Test in Christchurch.

While chasing a massive 531 for victory, the visitors began the final day under pressure and lost two quick wickets in the morning. Centurion Shai Hope, who had troubled the New Zealand for 234 balls, was dismissed at 140. Tevin Imlach followed soon after, leaving the West Indies at 295 for 6 and still well short of safety.

Justin Greaves  and Kemar Roach never allowed the bowlers to settle

But the Test turned when Justin Greaves and Kemar Roach came in to bat together. Greaves continued the fight he had started earlier in the innings, moving from his overnight 97 to a remarkable 202. He showed tremendous patience, survived a run-out chance, and never allowed the bowlers to settle.

While at the other end, Roach played one of the finest knocks of his career. He rode his luck, surviving both an lbw and a caught-behind decision when New Zealand had no reviews left but also showed solid defence and smart shot selection to bring up a impact 58 run.