NZ vs WI 1st Test Day 5: Bracewell frustrated as umpiring errors deny New Zealand, Roach survives with no DRS remaining

Tension has boiled over at Hagley Oval as New Zealand’s frustration grows, with Michael Bracewell visibly upset after two umpiring decisions — both of which could have dismissed Kemar Roach — went against them.

Roach first survived a close LBW shout and then a caught-behind appeal, and on both occasions replays and UltraEdge showed evidence that favoured the bowlers. But with no DRS reviews remaining, New Zealand were powerless to overturn the on-field calls.

The second incident particularly irked Bracewell:

Bracewell to Roach, no run — A sharp, quicker delivery skidded on, catching the outside edge as Roach prodded forward. UltraEdge later revealed a clear spike when the ball passed the bat. Umpire Alex Wharf, however, remained unmoved, and New Zealand could do nothing but watch the chance slip by.

With West Indies needing fewer than 100 and Roach living a charmed life at the crease, New Zealand’s bowlers — especially Bracewell — are showing signs of mounting frustration.

The drama is far from over.