NZ's 323-Run Thrashing Seals WI Series Rout

New Zealand demolished West Indies by 323 runs in the third Test at Mount Maunganui, clinching a 2-0 series whitewash. Openers Tom Latham (238 runs series) and Devon Conway (327 total) amassed 565 runs together—seven more than WI's entire third-innings effort. Jacob Duffy's 5-42 and Ajaz Patel's 3-23 triggered a collapse from 87-0 to 112-8, ending post-tea on day five.[cmjjfy6310008yv8vf5q8drfn]

This triumph marks New Zealand's first home Test series win over WI since 2003-04, boosting morale post-mixed results. Conway and Latham's centuries in both digs (Conway 227 & 100; Latham 137 & 101) echo their 2021 vs India stand. WI's 420 in first innings hid frailties, exposed by NZ's seam-spin combo on a turning track.

Openers' Dominance Dismantles WI

Latham-Conway duo's 565 runs at 65+ average rivals historic pairs like Hobbs-Sutcliffe (1920s). Duffy's 5fer—best Test figures—mirrors Tim Southee's hauls, with Patel's skidder claiming key scalps. WI needed 462—a record chase—but lost 10 for 51, worst collapse since 2018 vs India. NZ's 575-8 dec first up set tone, first innings lead of 155 proving decisive.[cmjjfy6310008yv8vf5q8drfn]

Series Win Bolsters Black Caps' Ranking Push

2-0 result catapults New Zealand up WTC standings, pressuring WI's qualification hopes amid poor away form (12 losses in 18). Compares to 2017-18 vs WI (2-0), but this features bigger margins. Implications: NZ eyes subcontinent tours; WI rebuilds post-Jason Holder era, with Roston Chase absent.

WTC Qualifiers and Revenge Tours Ahead

New Zealand targets WTC final spot; fans watch WI's response in ODIs. Upcoming India series tests depth—why follow? Black Caps' home fortress (win rate 45%) promises thrillers.

"It was a pretty comprehensive performance" - NZ captain, post-match.[cmjjfy6310008yv8vf5q8drfn]