NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 turned into a showcase of New Zealand’s sheer dominance in Test cricket. The Black Caps delivered a crushing blow to West Indies, winning by a massive 323 runs at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. This victory not only sealed a 2-0 series win but also propelled New Zealand to second place in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 standings. Fans around the world watched as records tumbled, bowlers shone, and the pitch played its tricky part in a thrilling five-day battle.
If you’re a cricket enthusiast following the West Indies tour of New Zealand 2025, this match was a highlight. From historic batting feats to a dramatic collapse, it had everything. Let’s dive deep into the recap, highlights, and analysis. Whether you’re reliving the moments or catching up, this guide covers it all.
Introduction to NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025
NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 kicked off on December 18, 2025, at the picturesque Bay Oval. New Zealand, already leading 1-0 after a draw in the first Test and a nine-wicket win in the second, aimed to wrap up the series strongly. West Indies, desperate for a fightback, faced a tough challenge on a venue known for its unique pitch behavior.
The toss went New Zealand’s way, and captain Tom Latham opted to bat first. What followed was a masterclass in batting, bowling, and strategy. Devon Conway and Latham scripted history, Jacob Duffy broke records, and the pitch deteriorated into a spinner’s paradise by Day 5. This match wasn’t just about the result – it highlighted New Zealand’s depth despite injuries and West Indies’ glimpses of resilience amid struggles.
As of December 22, 2025, the win has fans buzzing. Social media is alive with praise for Duffy’s heroics and Conway’s consistency. Let’s break it down step by step.
Match Overview and Final Result
NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 ended with New Zealand declaring twice and bowling West Indies out cheaply in the fourth innings. The hosts posted mammoth totals, while West Indies fought hard in their first innings but crumbled under pressure.
Here’s the brief scorecard:
| Innings | Team | Score | Key Performers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Innings | New Zealand | 575/8 dec | Conway 227, Latham 137 |
| 1st Innings | West Indies | 420 | Hodge 123*, King 63 |
| 2nd Innings | New Zealand | 306/2 dec | Latham 101, Conway 100 |
| 2nd Innings | West Indies | 138 | King 67 |
New Zealand won by 323 runs. The target was 462, but West Indies managed only 138 in 80.3 overs on Day 5. Player of the Match: Devon Conway. Player of the Series: Jacob Duffy (23 wickets).
This result boosted New Zealand in the WTC, while West Indies slipped further. More on that later.
Day-by-Day Recap of NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025
NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 unfolded over five days, with each bringing new twists. The pitch started flat but cracked up, making batting tough later.
Day 1: New Zealand Openers Lay a Solid Foundation
Day 1 belonged to New Zealand’s openers. After winning the toss, Latham and Conway built a massive 323-run partnership – New Zealand’s highest at home.
Conway looked unstoppable, scoring 178 not out by stumps. Latham contributed 137 before falling. The duo’s disciplined approach frustrated West Indies’ bowlers like Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales.
By close, New Zealand were 334/1. West Indies needed early wickets on Day 2 to fight back.
Key moments: Conway’s century (100 off 147 balls) and Latham’s ton (100 off 183 balls). Rain interrupted briefly, but the hosts dominated.
Day 2: Conway’s Double Ton and West Indies’ Steady Reply
Conway converted his overnight score into a majestic 227 – his highest in Tests. Rachin Ravindra added an unbeaten 72 as New Zealand declared at 575/8.
West Indies responded positively. Openers John Campbell (45*) and Brandon King (55*) ended at 110/0. It was a rare strong start for them in the series.
Duffy picked up early wickets for New Zealand, but West Indies showed grit. The pitch was still good for batting.
Day 3: Hodge’s Century Keeps West Indies in the Hunt
West Indies built on their start. Kavem Hodge scored an unbeaten 123 – his second Test ton. Contributions from King (63), Alick Athanaze (45), and Justin Greaves (43) took them to 381/6 by stumps.
Duffy claimed 4/86, and Ajaz Patel 3/113. New Zealand’s lead was 155 after the first innings.
The day saw variable bounce emerging, hinting at challenges ahead.
Day 4: Historic Twin Centuries and a Steep Target
New Zealand’s second innings was explosive. Latham (101) and Conway (100) became the first opening pair to score centuries in both innings of a Test.
They declared at 306/2, setting West Indies 462 to win. Williamson (40*) and Ravindra (46*) added quick runs.
West Indies ended at 43/0, with King looking solid. The pitch was now showing cracks.
Day 5: Dramatic Collapse Seals New Zealand’s Victory
West Indies started positively, reaching 87/0. But after drinks, they lost 8 wickets for 51 runs.
Duffy’s 5/42 and Patel’s 3/23 were devastating. King top-scored with 67, but others like Shai Hope (3 off 78 balls) couldn’t resist.
The match ended in the final session, with New Zealand winning by 323 runs.
Fan reactions on X highlighted the collapse: “From 87/0 to 138 all out – classic WI!”
Standout Player Performances in NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025
NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 featured stellar individual efforts. Let’s spotlight the stars.
Devon Conway: The Batting Maestro
Conway’s 227 and 100 made him the first New Zealander to score a double century and century in the same Test. His aggregate of 327 runs was match-defining.
Profile: Born in South Africa, Conway debuted for New Zealand in 2021. He’s known for his technique against pace and spin.
Quote: “I’m grateful for the conditions. It’s about a positive mindset.”
Tom Latham: Captain’s Knock
Latham’s 137 and 101 were crucial. As stand-in captain (Kane Williamson rested some games), he led by example.
Their partnerships: 323 (1st innings), 192 (2nd).
Jacob Duffy: Record-Breaking Bowler
Duffy took 9/128 in the match, including 5/42 in the second innings. His series haul of 23 wickets broke Sir Richard Hadlee’s home record.
He also set a 2025 calendar-year record with 81 wickets across formats.
Quote: “It’s been a cool year. Enjoying every bit.”
Ajaz Patel: Spin Wizard’s Home Revival
Patel, wicketless in previous home Tests, took 6/136 overall. His 3/23 on Day 5 exploited the pitch.
Kavem Hodge: West Indies’ Lone Warrior
Hodge’s 123* in the first innings was brave. But lack of support hurt.
Brandon King: Promising but Inconsistent
King’s 63 and 67 showed potential, but he couldn’t convert.
Full batting stats table:
| Player | Team | 1st Innings | 2nd Innings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Devon Conway | NZ | 227 | 100 |
| Tom Latham | NZ | 137 | 101 |
| Rachin Ravindra | NZ | 72* | 46* |
| Kavem Hodge | WI | 123* | 0 |
| Brandon King | WI | 63 | 67 |
| Alick Athanaze | WI | 45 | 2 |
Bowling stats:
| Bowler | Team | Match Figures |
|---|---|---|
| Jacob Duffy | NZ | 9/128 |
| Ajaz Patel | NZ | 6/136 |
| Jayden Seales | WI | 2/100 (1st), 0/36 (2nd) |
| Kemar Roach | WI | 1/63 |
Pitch and Conditions Analysis for Bay Oval
Bay Oval’s pitch in NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 was unique. It started batsman-friendly but deteriorated rapidly.
Early days: Flat, true bounce. Helped big scores.
By Day 4-5: Cracks widened, variable bounce emerged. Spinners like Patel got 15.8 degrees of turn.
Fans on X joked about it: “Pitch like broken plates!”
Comparisons: Similar to previous Bay Oval Tests, where fourth innings are tough. Average first innings score here: 400+.
Weather: Mostly clear, brief rain on Day 1.
For more on Bay Oval pitches, check ESPNcricinfo’s venue guide.
Series Summary: West Indies Tour of New Zealand 2025
The West Indies tour of New Zealand 2025 comprised three Tests.
- 1st Test (Christchurch): Draw. West Indies salvaged with resilient batting.
- 2nd Test (Wellington): New Zealand won by 9 wickets.
- 3rd Test: 323-run win.
New Zealand won 2-0. Duffy’s 23 wickets were series-high.
West Indies showed flashes – Hodge’s tons, Roach’s return – but consistency lacked.
Captain Roston Chase: “Tough series. We played in patches.”
World Test Championship Implications
NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 shook up the WTC 2025-27 table. New Zealand jumped to second with 77.78% points percentage.
Updated WTC table (as of December 22, 2025):
| Rank | Team | Matches | Wins | Losses | Draws | Points | PCT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australia | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 72 | 100.00 |
| 2 | New Zealand | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 28 | 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 |
New Zealand’s home form strengthens their WTC chances. West Indies’ woes continue – no wins in eight matches.
Posts on X celebrated: “NZ to No.2! 🔥”
Key Moments and Highlights from NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025
NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 had unforgettable highlights.
- Historic Openers’ Feat: Conway and Latham’s twin centuries – first ever for openers.
- Duffy’s Fifer: His short ball to King started the collapse.
- Patel’s Trap: Hope’s lbw on a full toss – smart review.
- Hodge’s Resistance: Unbeaten 123 amid wickets falling.
- WI Collapse: From 87/0 to 138 all out in one session.
Video highlights: Check YouTube for “NZ vs WI 3rd Test Day 5 Highlights” – Duffy’s bouncers and Patel’s spin are must-watch.
Fan moment: During lunch, fans inspected the pitch, mimicking experts. Viral on X!
Post-Match Reactions and Quotes
Reactions poured in after NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025.
Tom Latham: “Pleasing to be on the right side. We adapted well.”
Roston Chase: “Need to nail key moments.”
Jacob Duffy: “Special to be on that list with legends.”
Kane Williamson speculation: “This might be my last home Test.” Fans debate his future.
Media: Outlook India called it “Duffy sinks West Indies.”
Historical Context and Comparisons
NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 adds to a rich rivalry. New Zealand has won 20 of 53 Tests against West Indies.
Comparisons: Conway’s feat echoes Don Bradman’s multiple big scores. Duffy’s rise recalls Trent Boult’s breakthroughs.
In WTC era, this boosts New Zealand’s finals hopes, like their 2021 win.
Player Profiles: Rising Stars and Veterans
Jacob Duffy
Age 31, from Otago. Remodeled action in 2024. Now a key pacer.
Devon Conway
33, left-hander. Averages 45+ in Tests. IPL fans know him from Chennai Super Kings.
Kavem Hodge
26, West Indies all-rounder. Two tons in 2025 – bright future.
Ajaz Patel
37, Mumbai-born. Famous for 10-wicket haul in India.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
X was abuzz during NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025.
- “Conway and Latham – unbeatable duo!”
- WTC updates shared widely.
- Humorous takes on pitch: “Fans doing better reports than experts.”
Engage: What was your favorite moment? Comment below!
Future Outlook for Both Teams
New Zealand: Next face England in a three-Test series. Strong at home, but India tour in January looms.
West Indies: Need batting depth. Upcoming tours to build for WTC.
Williamson’s potential retirement: “More conversations ahead.”
FAQs on NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025
What was the result of NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025?
New Zealand won by 323 runs, sealing a 2-0 series victory.
How many wickets did Jacob Duffy take in the series?
23 – a New Zealand home record.
What records did Conway and Latham break?
First opening pair with centuries in both innings.
Bay Oval pitch report for NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025?
Started flat, became uneven with variable bounce by Day 5.
Updated WTC points after NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025?
New Zealand second (77.78 PCT), West Indies ninth (4.17 PCT).
Who was Player of the Match?
Devon Conway for 327 runs.
Did Kane Williamson retire after this Test?
No official announcement, but speculation about his last home game.
Key collapse in NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025?
West Indies from 87/0 to 138 all out on Day 5.
How did Ajaz Patel perform?
6/136, including 3/23 in second innings – best home figures.
Series scoreline for West Indies tour of New Zealand 2025?
New Zealand 2-0 (first Test drawn).
Where to watch highlights of NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025?
YouTube channels like Cricket New Zealand or official broadcasters.
Impact on WTC standings?
New Zealand strengthened finals bid; West Indies need wins urgently.
Conclusion: A Landmark Win for New Zealand Cricket
NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 was more than a match – it was a statement. New Zealand’s epic 323-run victory showcased their batting firepower, bowling depth, and adaptability. Records by Conway, Latham, and Duffy will be remembered.
For West Indies, it’s a learning curve. Hodge and King offer hope.
As cricket fans, we love these battles. New Zealand heads into Christmas on a high, second in WTC.
What do you think – can New Zealand win the WTC? Share in comments! Subscribe to IPL Star for more cricket updates. Check our internal link on WTC contenders.
New Zealand vs West Indies 2nd Test 2025 Recap!
FAQs: NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025
- What was the final result of NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025? New Zealand won the NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 by a massive 323 runs at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. They sealed the West Indies tour of New Zealand 2025 series 2-0. The Black Caps posted 575/8d and 306/2d, setting West Indies a target of 462, which they failed to chase, getting bowled out for 138.
- Who was Player of the Match in NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025? Devon Conway was named Player of the Match for his historic performance in the NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025. He scored 227 in the first innings and 100 in the second, becoming the first New Zealander to hit a double century and century in the same Test.
- What records did Devon Conway and Tom Latham break in NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025? Conway and Latham became the first opening pair in Test history to score centuries in both innings of the same match during the NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025. Conway’s 227 & 100 and Latham’s 137 & 101 made this a landmark feat for New Zealand cricket.
- How many wickets did Jacob Duffy take in the NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025? Jacob Duffy claimed 9/128 in the match (4/86 in the first innings and 5/42 in the second). His second-innings five-wicket haul in the NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 helped him break records, including most wickets in a calendar year for New Zealand (81) and the highest series tally at home (23 wickets).
- What was the Bay Oval pitch report for NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025? The Bay Oval pitch was batsman-friendly early on, allowing big first-innings totals. By Day 5, it cracked significantly, offering variable bounce and sharp turn for spinners. This unique deterioration made batting extremely tough in the fourth innings, favoring New Zealand’s bowlers in the NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025.
- How did New Zealand perform in the West Indies tour of New Zealand 2025 series? New Zealand dominated the three-Test series, winning 2-0 with one draw. After a drawn first Test in Christchurch and a nine-wicket victory in Wellington, they sealed the series with a 323-run win in the NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 at Bay Oval.
- Where does New Zealand stand in the WTC points table after NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025? New Zealand climbed to second place in the WTC 2025-27 standings with a 77.78% points percentage after the NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 victory. Australia leads with 100%, while West Indies remain at the bottom with just 4.17%.
- Why did West Indies collapse in the fourth innings of NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025? West Indies started strongly at 87/0 but collapsed to 138 all out on Day 5. Variable bounce and sharp spin from Jacob Duffy and Ajaz Patel triggered the fall of eight wickets for 51 runs. Shai Hope’s 3 off 78 balls exemplified their struggle against the deteriorating Bay Oval pitch.
- Did Kane Williamson play his last home Test in NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025? There is speculation that the NZ vs WI 3rd Test 2025 may have been Kane Williamson’s final home Test. While he hasn’t officially retired, he hinted at future conversations about his schedule, leaving fans wondering about his international future.
- Who was Player of the Series in the West Indies tour of New Zealand 2025? Jacob Duffy was awarded Player of the Series for his record-breaking 23 wickets across the three Tests. His performances, including three five-wicket hauls, were crucial in New Zealand’s 2-0 series victory in the West Indies tour of New Zealand 2025.