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In a thrilling display of fast bowling prowess, the first day of the second Test between West Indies and South Africa at the Providence Stadium in Guyana saw a remarkable 17 wickets tumble, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. The day was characterized by dramatic shifts in momentum, as both teams struggled to find stability amid challenging pitch conditions.
South Africa struggles with the bat
South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first, a decision that quickly backfired. The West Indies’ bowling attack, led by the impressive Shamar Joseph, wreaked havoc on the South African batting order. Joseph, making his mark with a stunning performance, claimed five wickets for just 33 runs. His ability to swing the ball and maintain tight lines proved crucial, as he dismantled the top order with precision.
Key wickets fell at regular intervals, with South Africa’s batsmen unable to form any substantial partnerships. Number 10 Dane Piedt top-scored for the visitors with an unbeaten 38, but none of the batters was able to cross the thirty-figure mark. The South African innings ended at a meagre total of 160 runs, with the last wicket adding 63 runs.
The West Indies bowlers exploited the overcast conditions and a pitch that offered plenty of assistance, leaving South Africa reeling.
Also READ: WI vs SA 2024, 2nd Test – Guyana Weather Forecast for the series decider | West Indies vs South Africa
West Indies’ response: A rocky start
With a modest target set, the West Indies took to the crease, but they too found themselves in a precarious position. The South African bowlers, led by Wiaan Mulder, were relentless in their pursuit of wickets. Mulder’s spell was particularly effective, as he claimed four wickets for 18 runs, consistently troubling the West Indies batsmen with his pace and movement.
As the West Indies innings progressed, they struggled to cope with the relentless pressure applied by the South African attack. The home side lost wickets at regular intervals, with only a few batsmen managing to reach double figures. By the close of play, the West Indies were teetering at 97 for 7, trailing by 63 runs and facing the prospect of being bowled out for a low total.
That's it on Day 1️⃣ in Guyana!🏏#WIvSA #MenInMaroon pic.twitter.com/v6DZGLfsKa
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) August 15, 2024
Key performers and statistics
- Shamar Joseph (WI): 5 wickets for 33 runs
- Wiaan Mulder (SA): 3 wickets for 24 runs
- Dane Piedt (SA): Top scorer with 38 not out
A day to remember!💥
Shamar Joseph becomes the 2nd West Indian to take a fifer at the Guyana National Stadium!🏟️ #WIvSA | #MenInMaroon pic.twitter.com/cxQEjWRJld
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) August 15, 2024
