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West Indies have strengthened their hold in the first Test against Bangladesh in Antigua, thanks to Justin Greaves‘ maiden Test century and a resolute lower-order partnership with Kemar Roach. Declaring their innings at 450/9, the hosts left Bangladesh reeling at 40/2, still trailing by a massive 410 runs at the end of Day 2.
Hasan Mahmud shines in the morning
Starting the day at 261/7, West Indies faced early setbacks as Hasan Mahmud struck twice in quick succession. The pacer trapped Joshua da Silva LBW for 14 before dismissing Alzarri Joseph for 4. Despite these breakthroughs, Bangladesh could not sustain the pressure.
Justin Greaves and Kemar Roach’s game-changing stand
Greaves, unbeaten on 11 overnight, found a determined partner in Roach. Together, they stitched a 140-run partnership for the eighth wicket, rescuing the hosts and frustrating the Bangladeshi attack. Roach fell just three runs short of a well-deserved fifty, bowled by Mahmud, but not before helping the team cross the 400-run mark.
Greaves brought up his maiden Test century in style with a straight drive for four. Late cameos from Jayden Seales (18) and Shamar Joseph (11) added quick runs, prompting West Indies to declare at 450/9 shortly after Tea.
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Bangladesh openers struggle against Windies pace attack
Bangladesh faced a daunting task to negotiate the remaining overs of the day. Their openers showed initial resilience but could not survive the probing spells of Seales and Joseph.
Zakir Hasan, who looked promising with two boundaries in the 10th over, was undone by Seales, leaving on 15. Soon after, Joseph struck to dismiss Mahmudul Hasan Joy for 5, reducing Bangladesh to 21/2.
Amid fading light, Mominul Haque and Shahadat Hossain offered some resistance, ensuring no further damage before stumps. Bangladesh ended the day at 40/2, staring at a steep deficit.
With a monumental deficit and eight wickets in hand, Bangladesh will look to their middle order for a solid response. West Indies, on the other hand, will aim to capitalize on their strong start and push for a decisive victory.
