Bangladesh turned a narrow first-innings lead into a formidable 211-run advantage over the West Indies on the third day of the second Test at Sabina Park. Nahid Rana’s spectacular five-wicket haul and Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s aggressive batting propelled the visitors into a commanding position.
Rana’s Career-Best Performance
In the first innings, Bangladesh defended their modest 164 by bowling out the West Indies for 146. Fast bowler Nahid Rana was the star, claiming his maiden five-for in Test cricket. Rana’s fiery spell after lunch saw him take 4-26 in just seven overs, breaking the West Indies’ batting resistance. His pace and accuracy wreaked havoc, as the hosts lost nine wickets for just 61 runs.
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite (39) and Keacy Carty (40) were the only players to reach double figures. Brathwaite’s dismissal, a sharp catch at gully by substitute Zakir Hasan, triggered the collapse. Rana ended the innings by trapping Kemar Roach LBW, completing figures of 5-61.
Mehidy and Shadman Lead the Counterattack
Batting in their second innings, Bangladesh responded with boldness. Despite losing Mahmudul Hasan Joy in the first over, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, promoted to No. 4 due to Mominul Haque’s illness, launched a counterattack. His quickfire 42 off 39 balls, including four consecutive boundaries, set the tone.
Mehidy and opener Shadman Islam added 70 runs in 74 balls, with Shadman contributing a solid 46. Their partnership pushed the lead past 150, frustrating the West Indies bowlers. The duo’s aggressive approach helped Bangladesh seize control before both fell just after tea.
Steady Contributions in the Middle Order
Though the West Indies mounted some resistance in the final session, Jaker Ali steadied Bangladesh’s innings. His unbeaten 29 helped the visitors close the day at 193-5. Litton Das chipped in with 25 despite being bowled through the gate by Justin Greaves.
Kemar Roach’s absence for 30 overs due to a shoulder injury limited the West Indies’ bowling options, further tilting the momentum in Bangladesh’s favor.
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West Indies Struggles with the Bat
Earlier in the day, the West Indies squandered their solid start of 85-1. Rana’s fiery pace and Hasan Mahmud’s consistency dismantled the lineup. Tailenders Shamar Joseph and Kemar Roach faced bruising short-pitched deliveries before the innings ended shortly after lunch.
Bangladesh’s bowlers, including Taskin Ahmed and Taijul Islam, maintained tight control, keeping the run rate under two runs per over.
Historic First-Innings Lead
This was only the second time in Bangladesh’s Test history that they secured a first-innings lead after scoring fewer than 200. The last instance was against South Africa in 2008 when they led by 22 runs.
Bangladesh’s Eyes on Victory
With a substantial lead and five wickets in hand, Bangladesh has a golden opportunity to level the two-Test series. The combination of aggressive batting and disciplined bowling has put the team in a position to dictate terms as the match progresses.
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