Tue Nov 26 14:20:00 UTC 2024: **West Indies on Verge of Victory After Wicket-Filled Day in First Test**
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – A dramatic penultimate day in the first Test between West Indies and Bangladesh saw 17 wickets fall, leaving the West Indies firmly in control heading into the final day. Veteran pacer Kemar Roach and young gun Jayden Seales spearheaded the Windies’ bowling attack, each claiming three wickets to leave Bangladesh reeling at 109 for seven at the close of play.
Bangladesh, surprisingly declaring overnight on 269/9, conceded a first-innings lead of 181 runs. However, they fought back valiantly in the second innings, thanks to a career-best six-wicket haul (6-64) by Taskin Ahmed, who routed the West Indies for a paltry 152. This gave Bangladesh a glimmer of hope, setting a target of 334 for victory.
Despite missed chances by the West Indies fielders, Roach and Seales proved too strong for the Bangladesh batsmen. Roach struck early, dismissing Zakir Hasan with the fifth ball of the innings. Seales followed up with the wicket of Mahmudul Hasan Joy, leaving Bangladesh struggling at 7/2. Roach later added another wicket via a caught-behind appeal, while Seales later dismissed Mehidy Hasan Miraz (45) and Taijul Islam, leaving Bangladesh’s hopes hanging by a thread.
While Taskin Ahmed’s performance was commendable, the West Indies’ disciplined bowling and Bangladesh’s batting collapse ultimately dominated the day’s proceedings. The match will resume on the final day with Bangladesh needing 225 runs to win, and the West Indies well-placed to secure a victory.
First Piper 