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At the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, the West Indies moved to the verge of victory in the first Test against Bangladesh after a dramatic Day 4 that saw 17 wickets fall. Chasing a daunting target of 334, Bangladesh stumbled to 109 for 7 by stumps, with Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales spearheading the home side’s charge toward a memorable win.
Bangladesh batters crumble under pressure
Bangladesh’s second innings began disastrously as both openers fell cheaply. Zakir Hasan was dismissed for a duck by Roach, while Mahmudul Hasan Joy managed just six before edging Seales to slip. Roach and Seales tore through the top order, reducing Bangladesh to a precarious 23 for 4. The duo ended the day with three wickets each, leaving the visitors in deep trouble.
Amid the collapse, Mehidy Hasan Miraz fought valiantly, crafting a counter-attacking 45 off 46 balls. He forged partnerships of 36 with Litton Das (22) and 43 with Jaker Ali, who remained unbeaten on 15 at the close. However, Mehidy’s dismissal to Seales late in the day dealt a severe blow to Bangladesh’s slim hopes of salvaging the game.
Taskin Ahmed shines despite a grim day for Bangladesh
Earlier, Bangladesh made a bold declaration at their overnight score of 269 for 9, conceding a significant 181-run first-innings deficit in an effort to force a result. Taskin Ahmed then delivered a standout performance with the ball, securing his maiden five-wicket haul in Tests. His exceptional figures of 6-64 were instrumental in bundling out the West Indies for 152 in their second innings, keeping the target under 350.
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Taskin’s disciplined bowling exploited the deteriorating pitch as he removed key players like Mikyle Louis and Keacy Carty early, before running through the middle order. Despite his heroics, Bangladesh’s batting lineup failed to rise to the challenge.
Day 4, Stumps
Bangladesh: 109/7, need 225 runs to win 🏏#cricket #WIvBAN #westindiescricket #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/SrugbKbjfr
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) November 26, 2024
West Indies on verge of victory
Roach (3-20) and Seales (3-31) executed the West Indies’ game plan flawlessly, maintaining disciplined lines and exploiting the uneven bounce to devastating effect. Roach’s control and subtle variations were particularly lethal against a fragile Bangladesh top order.
With just three wickets needed to seal the win, the West Indies are firmly in control heading into the final day. Bangladesh, still trailing by 225 runs, face an uphill battle to avoid defeat in this gripping first Test.
