New Zealand opener Tom Latham posted his third test century to help put the Black Caps in a strong position when the test against Sri Lanka resumes at the University Oval today.
But on 99 he had to endure a long wait while the third umpire examined the evidence.
Latham had paddled the ball around the corner for a brace to move to 99. But bowler Rangana Herath was certain the deflection was all pad and appealed unsuccessfully for an lbw.
The touring side decided to review the decision and that process took an age.
The broadcaster kept showing pictures of former New Zealand cricketer Rod Latham - Tom's father - shuffling nervously in his seat.
But out in the middle, Latham was mostly peace.‘‘I was pretty certain I hit it, so I wasn't too bad but obviously it took a little bit of time - started second-guessing myself a little bit.''
Three deliveries later, Latham clipped the ball into the legside to raise the milestone and was undefeated on 109 when New Zealand declared.
‘‘To be able to get the first one on home soil is certainly pleasing and I think in the second innings as well.‘‘I haven't scored a huge amount of runs in the second innings and it was nice to do that in that sort of situation.
‘‘We were looking to push on this morning and we managed to push that declaration just before lunch and hit that 400 mark.''
Brendon McCullum's declaration came perhaps earlier than expected but Latham said the Black Caps felt they needed the extra time to take 10 second innings wickets.
‘‘I think the last couple of times we have played here it's taken a long time to get the wickets.
‘‘We've given ourselves as much opportunity to take those 10 wickets and, I think, if we bowl like we have done in the last few days we are going to give ourselves a good chance.''
