Why Devon Conway's 178* against WI entered record books: Stats
What's the story
Centuries from openers Devon Conway and Tom Latham helped New Zealand dominate West Indies on Day 1 of the 3rd Test at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The duo stitched a 323-run partnership for the opening wicket, setting new records for the Kiwis. Their stellar performances guided the hosts to a total of 334/1 by stumps on Day 1. Meanwhile, Conway returned unbeaten on 178.
Knock
Conway gets the better of WI bowlers
Both Latham and Conway were all over the Windies after the hosts elected to bat first. The stand continued to grow and lasted until the final minutes of Day 1. While Latham played a patient innings, Conway was the aggressor. He completed his century off 147 balls. Conway returned unbeaten on 178 (279). He has hit 25 fours as of now.
Information
Sixth Test ton for Conway
According to ESPNcricinfo, Conway raced to his sixth century in Test cricket. He also has 13 half-centuries. In 32 Tests, the left-handed opener is closing in on 2,400 runs (2,384*). He averages over 42 at present.
Record
Conway joins these players
As per ESPNcricinfo, Conway's score at stumps (Bay Oval Test) is the third-highest by a New Zealand batter on Day 1 of a Test. He is only behind Brendon McCullum (195 vs Sri Lanka in 2014) and Latham (186* vs Bangladesh in 2022), with both knocks coming in Christchurch. Notably, Conway has an opportunity to record his highest Test score (Current best: 200).
Partnership
Record opening stand for NZ
Latham and Conway recorded the second-highest opening partnership for New Zealand in Test cricket. Their 323 is only behind the 387-run stand between Glenn Turner and Terry Jarvis against West Indies in Georgetown in 1972, as per ESPNcricinfo. Notably, Latham and Conway also stitched the highest Test opening partnership in New Zealand, surpassing 276 (in 1930 and in 1999).