Highest 4th innings scores by NZ batters in Asia (Tests)
Although in a losing cause, Rachin Ravindra hammered a sensational 92 in the fourth innings of the first Test between Sri Lanka and New Zealand in Galle. He fought a lone battle for the Black Caps, who needed 275 to win. However, he missed out on a well-deserved hundred. Here we look at NZ batters with the highest fourth-innings scores in Tests in Asia.
Daniel Vettori - 140 in Colombo, 2009
Daniel Vettori is the only Kiwi batter with a fourth-innings Test ton in Asia. Chasing a mammoth 494 in the 2009 Colombo Test, NZ were 176/6 when Vettori arrived to bat. The NZ skipper dominated a 124-run stand with Jacob Oram, taking his side past 300. However, Muthiah Muralidaran eventually ended his resistance as NZ perished for 297. Vettori made a 189-ball 140.
Rachin Ravindra - 92 in Galle, 2024
Ravindra's aforementioned 168-ball 92 is next on this list. He arrived with the scorecard reading 51/2. However, the Lankan spinners posed a significant threat in the middle overs as wickets kept tumbling at the other end. Ravindra held one end and carried NZ's hopes single-handedly. Prabath Jayasuriya eventually trapped him lbw as the Kiwis lost the contest by 63 runs.
Craig McMillan - 83* in Ahmedabad, 2003
All-rounder Craig McMillan secured a draw for the Kiwis in the 2003 Ahmedabad Test against India. NZ were reduced to 169/6 in a chase of 370. McMillan, who arrived at number six, joined forces with Nathan Astle thereafter as NZ didn't lose any wickets thereafter. McMillan's resilience was exemplary as he returned unbeaten on 83 off 190 balls. He added 103 runs with Astle.
Luke Ronchi - 80 in Kanpur, 2016
NZ were tasked to chase down 434 in the 2016 Nagpur Test against India. While the top-order batters faltered, Luke Ronchi fought well. He joined forces with Mitchell Santner (71) and the duo added 102 runs for the fifth wicket. Ronchi was the aggressor in the partnership as he made 80 off just 120 balls. The Kiwis, however, eventually lost by 197 runs.
