West Indies’ marathon man Justin Greaves required on-field treatment late on Day 5 of the first Test in Christchurch, with the allrounder going down due to cramps after spending more than 350 balls at the crease in a heroic fourth-innings effort.
The incident occurred at 154.1 overs, when Michael Bracewell delivered a shorter ball outside off and Greaves’ partner Kemar Roach defended it back. Greaves immediately went down on the turf, prompting the physio to rush out. After an intense stretching session focusing on his left leg, the 188-run batter got back on his feet, still hobbling but determined to continue.
Greaves has been batting for long, draining hours in New Zealand’s chilly conditions as West Indies continue their bid to chase down 468, needing fewer than 100 runs with four wickets in hand. His grit has been central to the visitors’ stunning fightback, forming a massive partnership with Roach, who is also showing incredible resilience after surviving multiple appeals.
With just over 9 overs left in the day and the target narrowing, Greaves’ fitness could become a decisive factor as West Indies push toward what would be a historic, record-breaking fourth-innings chase.
