WI Batting Failure Puts Australia in Command on a 15-Wicket Day
WI Batting Failure Puts Australia in Command on a 15-Wicket Day: In a day of relentless action at Sabina Park, Australia tightened their grip on the first Test against the West Indies despite a spirited fightback from the hosts’ pace attack under lights. A staggering 15 wickets fell on Day 2, leaving the match finely poised but with Australia holding a commanding lead of 181 runs.
Match Summary
- Australia: 225 & 99/6 (Green 42*, Alzarri Joseph 3-19, Shamar Joseph 2-26)
- West Indies: 143 (Boland 3-34, Cummins 2-24, Hazlewood 2-32)
- Australia lead by 181 runs
West Indies Collapse as Australia’s Bowlers Dominate
The day began with the West Indies resuming their first innings, but their batting lineup crumbled against a disciplined Australian bowling attack. Scott Boland, replacing Nathan Lyon in the XI, was the standout performer with 3-34, while Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood chipped in with two wickets each.
The hosts were bundled out for 143, handing Australia a crucial 82-run first-innings lead. The pitch offered significant assistance to the pacers, with variable bounce and movement under lights making batting a nightmare.
Australia Stumble in Second Innings as West Indies Strike Back
Despite their strong position, Australia’s second innings got off to a disastrous start. Sam Konstas, struggling for form, fell for a duck to Shamar Joseph, continuing his miserable series with just 50 runs at 8.33. His poor returns have raised doubts over his Ashes selection later this year.
Usman Khawaja, who had shown resilience throughout the series, was undone by a sharp delivery from Shamar Joseph, inside-edging onto his stumps. At 99/6, Australia were in danger of squandering their advantage, but Cameron Green’s unbeaten 42 kept them afloat. His knock was a mix of grit and luck—he survived a close run-out chance on 14—and could prove decisive in setting a challenging target.
West Indies’ Pace Trio Shine Under Lights
- Alzarri Joseph (3-19) was relentless, extracting steep bounce and troubling the batters.
- Shamar Joseph (2-26) provided crucial breakthroughs, including Konstas and Khawaja.
- Kemar Roach maintained pressure, ensuring Australia never settled.
Key Takeaways from Day 2
- Australia’s Bowling Depth: Even without Lyon, their pace attack dismantled the West Indies batting.
- West Indies’ Fightback: The hosts showed spirit with the ball, keeping the match alive.
- Cameron Green’s Importance: His unbeaten 42 could be the difference between a competitive target and a collapse.
What to Expect on Day 3?
With Australia 181 runs ahead and only four wickets in hand, the first session on Day 3 will be crucial. If Green can push the lead past 250, the West Indies will face an uphill battle. However, if the hosts strike early, they could chase a manageable total in tough conditions.
FAQs
1. Why did Australia struggle in their second innings?
The West Indies pacers exploited the difficult batting conditions under lights, with Alzarri and Shamar Joseph generating sharp movement. Australia’s top order failed to adapt, leading to a collapse.
2. Is Sam Konstas’ Test career in jeopardy?
With just 50 runs in six innings at an average of 8.33, Konstas’ place is under serious threat, especially with the Ashes looming.
3. Can West Indies still win this Test?
Yes, but they need to bowl Australia out quickly on Day 3 and then bat substantially better in their second innings. A target of 200+ will be extremely tough on this pitch.
