Bangladesh started the day strong after opting to bowl first. Pacers Shoriful Islam and Hasan Mahmud delivered disciplined opening spells. Taskin Ahmed made the early breakthroughs, dismissing Kraigg Brathwaite and Keacy Carty to leave the West Indies struggling. At lunch, the visitors looked in control, eager to maintain momentum.
The afternoon session saw Mikyle Louis leading the West Indies’ fightback. His gritty 71 off 166 balls steadied the innings. A partnership with Kavem Hodge, who scored 25, helped the hosts rebuild. Hodge’s run-out briefly disrupted their progress, but Louis found support in Alick Athanaze. Together, they added 32 crucial runs for the fourth wicket. Bangladesh’s spinners, Mehidy Hasan and Taijul Islam, kept probing without success.
Athanaze and Louis Shine in Evening Session
The final session belonged to the West Indies as Alick Athanaze and Mikyle Louis showcased a counterattack. The pair added over 100 runs, steering their side to a commanding position. Both batters stormed into their 90s but fell just short of centuries. Louis was the first to depart after a shaky period, followed by Athanaze, who succumbed to Taijul Islam’s spin.
New Ball Backfires for Bangladesh
Bangladesh took the second new ball in the last hour, hoping to regain control. However, the plan backfired as Joshua Da Silva and Justin Greaves countered with quick runs. Their partnership ensured the West Indies ended the day at 250/5, setting a solid foundation for Day 2.
Key Performances
- Mikyle Louis: Anchored the innings with a determined 71.
- Alick Athanaze: Played a fluent knock, scoring 90 before falling to Taijul Islam.
- Taskin Ahmed: Claimed two crucial early wickets.
- Taijul Islam: Dismissed Athanaze and provided crucial breakthroughs for Bangladesh.
Despite losing momentum in the evening, Bangladesh will aim for early wickets on Day 2 to restrict the West Indies under 300. Their bowlers must capitalize on the favorable morning conditions to regain control.
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