Published :
Updated :
For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
A stellar maiden Test century by Justin Greaves and a fiery bowling effort put the West Indies in firm control of the first Test against Bangladesh in Antigua.
At stumps on Day Two, Bangladesh found themselves struggling at 40-2, trailing the hosts by a daunting 410 runs.
Greaves anchored the West Indies innings with a composed 115 not out, helping his team post a commanding 450 for nine wickets declared.
His knock was built over 206 balls and featured just four boundaries, proving his patience and ability to wear down the opposition.
Resuming on 250-5, the West Indies endured an early scare as Hasan Mahmud struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Joshua Da Silva and Alzarri Joseph to leave the hosts at 261-7.
However, Greaves found an able partner in Kemar Roach, whose gritty 47 during their 140-run eighth-wicket stand steered the innings back on track. Roach batted over four hours, demonstrating resilience in his highest Test score.
The partnership was the third-highest eighth-wicket stand for the West Indies in Test history and their best against Bangladesh. Roach eventually fell to Mahmud, who finished as Bangladesh's standout bowler with figures of 3-87 from 27 overs.
Bangladesh's response was fraught with difficulties against a disciplined West Indian pace attack.
Zakir Hasan, who looked promising with three boundaries, was dismissed for 15 after an under-edge off Jayden Seales shaved the leg stump. Soon after, Alzarri Joseph struck to remove Mahmudul Hasan Joy for 5, leaving Bangladesh tottering at 21-2.
Mominul Haque (7*) and Shahadat Hossain (10*) weathered the storm to end the day unscathed, but Bangladesh faces a herculean task to salvage the match.
Earlier, Bangladesh won the toss under new captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz and opted to bowl first.