Cricket: The best of the test

Tim Southee of New Zealand bowls during Day Three of the First Test between Pakistan and New Zealand at Sheikh Zayed stadium. Photo / Getty Images.

Herald cricket writer Andrew Alderson details the best moments from the third day of the first test between the Black Caps and Pakistan in Abu Dhabi.

Important moment:

Tom Latham reaching his maiden test century as others dissolved around him. A composed performance in circumstances where the country's three best batsmen contributed 21 between them. Exemplified the graft required and looks to have a sound future in the opening role.

Best shot:

Imran Khan pitched short; the ball rose to Latham's mid-riff; the opener swivelled and guided it to the square leg boundary. It was the shot of a man in form, especially given he moved from 91 to 95 in the process. Showed minimal nerves.

Ball of the day:

Zulfiqar's delivery to Ross Taylor to lure the edge. Removed arguably Pakistan's key obstacle to dominating the test. Tempting flight, a difficult line, a good length and went away from him. Snick. Pouched. Jubilation.

That's quirky:

Before this innings Taylor has never faced more than two balls when dismissed for a duck. This time he faced six. (With compliments to Cricinfo)

Tweet as:

Martin Devlin ?@DevlinLive

Every test match of late it seems we're being given a good reason to celebrate. Maiden ton to Tom Latham, brilliant! #BlackCaps

Stats all:

Walter and Richard Hadlee, Ken and Hamish Rutherford and Rod and Tom Latham are the only father and son combinations to score test centuries for New Zealand. There are 11 worldwide and with three, New Zealand leads the field.

Testometer

11/12 - in favour of Pakistan.