First Test of the three-match series between new zealand And west indiesThe event, to be held at Hagley Oval on December 2-6, 2025, is set to take place in varying weather conditions, with the greatest risk of rain predicted on Days 1 and 5. While skies are expected to remain clear in the middle stage of the match, there will be early cloud cover, fluctuations in temperature and strong north-westerly winds could shape the behavior of the pitch and captaincy decisions.
New Zealand vs West Indies, 1st Test: Will rain spoil the game?
Temperatures through the test window are expected to be between 8 °C and 24 °C, humidity is between 58–73% and winds may gust up to 38 km/h. These factors are expected to help the traditionally dominant seam bowlers at the Hagley Oval. With minimal interruptions anticipated in the middle of the Test, teams winning the toss on the first day may be tempted to bowl first and take advantage of favorable conditions with the new ball.
Day 1: Chance of heavy rain and cloudy sky will pose a challenge in the beginning
The opening day on 2 December brings the most volatile Test weather. It is predicted to be cloudy with temperatures between 8-18 °C, along with strong northwesterly winds that could reach up to 38 km/h, especially in open areas of the stadium.
A 25-40% chance of rain threatens to delay or disrupt the opening session. Forecast models indicate 10-20 mm of rainfall if rainfall aligns during the game, prompting officials and teams to monitor updates closely. Heavy 80% cloud cover should create ideal swing conditions, giving fast bowlers an early advantage matt henryThe batsmen may face a tough test until the overhead conditions improve,
Day 2: Better forecast with moderate seam activity
Conditions will improve on December 3, with chances of rain reducing to 20-30%, although scattered rain may still cause minor disruptions. Temperatures rise to 12–20 °C, while winds slow to around 20 km/h, creating more stable playing conditions than the day before.
Partly cloudy afternoons are ideal for long sessions of play, but humidity hovering near 70% can still help the bowlers. The fast bowlers of both sides – especially the New Zealand attack and the West Indies attack jaden seals – Long-term activities through air are expected to be beneficial.
Day 3: Excellent weather window promises cricket all day
The third day, on 4 December, presents the most favorable forecast, with the chance of rain falling to less than 15%. Temperatures soar to 14–22 °C, and winds slow to a constant between 15–25 km/h. Under partly sunny skies, teams should enjoy an uninterrupted day – perfect for batting as the pitch usually settles down by this stage.
Historical data at Hagley Oval suggests that scores in excess of 300 can be achieved on days three and four once the early greens subside and the bounces become more predictable.
Day 4: Dry, hot and windy conditions set the stage for big scores
5 December remains dry with negligible rainfall (<10%) and temperatures 16–24 °C. Strong north-westerly winds between 20-30 km/h may provide minor assistance to the bowlers, but overall conditions favor the batsmen. Partial cloud cover near 50% should keep the pitch lively enough to prevent imbalances, but allow set players to take advantage, especially during the third and fourth innings.
Also read: NZ vs WI 2025 – Pitch report, Hagley Oval stats and records for 1st Test
Day 5: The threat of rain returns for a potentially dramatic finish
The final day on 6 December again saw a chance of rain between 30–50%, with temperatures dropping to 10–20 °C. Forecasts warned of up to 15 mm of rainfall, which could disrupt the test’s completion course. If weather permits, both teams will try for a result – but there will still be a chance of early use of cover if there is morning rain.
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