In a commanding display of cricket, the West Indies defeated Bangladesh by 201 runs in the first Test of the two-match series at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua. This victory not only marks a significant achievement for the West Indies but also gives them an unassailable 1-0 lead in the series.

Match Summary

Chasing a daunting target of 334 runs to win, Bangladesh struggled significantly, finishing their second innings at just 132 runs, with tailender Shoriful Islam forced to retire hurt after being struck by a bouncer from Alzarri Joseph. The West Indies bowlers were relentless, with Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales each taking three wickets, while Joseph contributed with two crucial dismissals. Earlier in the match, West Indies set a formidable total in their first innings, declaring at 450 for 9. The standout performer was Justin Greaves, who scored a magnificent 115 runs, supported by significant contributions from Mikyle Louis (97) and Alick Athanaze (90).

Key Performances

West Indies Batting

• Justin Greaves: The highlight of the West Indies first innings was Greaves’ century, which came during a critical eighth-wicket partnership that added 140 runs with Roach. His knock was marked by patience and aggression, helping stabilize the West Indies after early wickets.
• Mikyle Louis: Coming agonizingly close to his maiden Test century, Louis scored 97 runs before falling to Mehidy Hasan Miraz. His innings included 10 boundaries and showcased his ability to build partnerships.
• Alick Athanaze: Also falling short of a century with 90 runs, Athanaze played a crucial role in anchoring the Windies’ first innings alongside Louis.

Also WATCH: Kemar Roach grabs a one-handed stunner to dismiss Mominul Haque on Day 4 of the first WI vs BAN Test

Bangladesh bowling

• Taskin Ahmed: Despite the loss, Taskin’s performance stood out as he claimed six wickets for 64 runs in the second innings. His ability to extract bounce and movement made him a constant threat to the West Indian batsmen.

West Indies Bowling

• Kemar Roach: The veteran pacer was instrumental in dismantling Bangladesh’s batting lineup, taking three wickets for just 20 runs in the second innings. His early strikes set the tone for West Indies’ dominance.
• Jayden Seales: Equally effective, Seales took three wickets for 45 runs, complementing Roach’s efforts and maintaining pressure on Bangladesh throughout their innings.
• Alzarri Joseph: With two wickets in hand and a bouncer that forced Shoriful to retire hurt, Joseph’s pace was pivotal in breaking through Bangladesh’s defenses in both innings.

Bangladesh’s struggle with the bat

Bangladesh’s batting woes were evident as they struggled to build partnerships. After resuming their second innings at 109 for 7, they lost Jaker Ali (31) and Hasan Mahmud (0) early on Day 5. Mehidy Hasan top-scored with 45 runs but lacked support from his teammates as they crumbled under pressure from the West Indies bowlers.The match concluded dramatically as Shoriful retired hurt for 1, leaving Bangladesh at 132 for 9, effectively ending their hopes of chasing down the target.

Also WATCH: Kemar Roach’s stunning delivery to dismiss Zakir Hasan for a duck on Day 4 of the first WI vs BAN Test

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