Mon Nov 25 16:55:04 UTC 2024: **West Indies Fight Back to Post Competitive Total Against Bangladesh in First Test**
ANTIGUA – The West Indies fought back impressively on day one of the first Test against Bangladesh at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, eventually reaching 309/7 at stumps. After a shaky start, where they lost two early wickets for just 25 runs, the hosts were rescued by crucial half-centuries from opener Mikyle Louis (97) and Alick Athanaze (90).
Bangladesh’s pace bowler Taskin Ahmed struck early, dismissing captain Kraigg Brathwaite (4) lbw and then removing Keacy Carty (0) before lunch, leaving West Indies struggling at 50/2. However, Louis and Athanaze steadied the ship, forging a vital 140-run partnership for the third wicket. Their determined batting frustrated the Bangladeshi bowlers. Louis’s innings was eventually ended by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, just short of a century, while Athanaze fell to Taijul Islam shortly after.
Despite a late collapse that saw the loss of several quick wickets, Justin Greaves (41*) and Keemar Roach (14*) provided a resolute late-order stand, ensuring West Indies passed the 300-run mark. The partnership proved crucial in helping the home side post a challenging total for Bangladesh to chase. The match continues tomorrow.
First Piper 