The second day of the second Test between West Indies and Bangladesh at Sabina Park unfolded as a gripping contest dominated by the brilliance of Jayden Seales. The West Indies pacer delivered a performance for the ages, claiming figures of 15.5-10-5-4, the most economical analysis in Test cricket since 1977 (minimum 60 balls). At stumps, the West Indies trailed Bangladesh by 94 runs, reaching 70 for 1 with Kraigg Brathwaite and Keacy Carty anchoring the innings after an early setback.
Shamar Joseph and Seales Tear Through Bangladesh
Bangladesh, resuming their innings, faced early challenges from Shamar Joseph, who dismantled their middle order with precision. The visitors, steady at 83 for 2, lost four wickets in the space of just 34 balls to crash to 98 for 6.
Joseph’s spell began by breaking a 73-run partnership between Shadman Islam (64) and Shahadat Hossain. Shahadat fell for 22, bowled comprehensively. Joseph then removed Jaker Ali with a short ball that lobbed behind the stumps for an easy catch. He further dented Bangladesh’s innings by dismissing Shadman, caught behind, leaving the West Indies in firm control.
Mehidy and Taijul Resist Before Late Collapse
Bangladesh found a brief respite post-lunch as Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam displayed resilience. Together, they absorbed 116 balls, adding 41 runs amidst persistent short-pitched bowling by Shamar and Alzarri Joseph. However, the partnership was broken when Taijul fended a short delivery to third slip.
Seales then unleashed his fury, cleaning up the tail in dramatic fashion. Taskin Ahmed’s attempted pull resulted in a sharp edge, expertly parried by Joshua Da Silva and caught by Alick Athanaze at second slip. Mehidy was next to fall, top-edging a hook to fine leg before Seales uprooted Nahid Rana’s leg stump to wrap up the innings for 164.
West Indies’ Steady Response
Chasing a modest target, West Indies made a cautious start. The Bangladesh seamers, led by Nahid Rana, maintained tight lines, conceding only 16 runs in the first ten overs. Rana’s pace and accuracy paid off when he had Mikyle Louis caught behind for 12.
Brathwaite (33*) and Carty (22*) then steadied the ship, navigating a challenging spell from Taijul Islam, who bowled seven maidens in his ten overs but went wicketless. The pair carried the hosts to 70 for 1 before bad light curtailed play for the second consecutive day.
Looking Ahead
With only 94 runs separating the two sides, Day 3 promises an intriguing battle. The West Indies will aim to capitalize on their strong position and build a commanding lead, while Bangladesh’s bowlers must strike early to keep their hopes alive.
Key Performers
- Jayden Seales: 15.5-10-5-4
- Shamar Joseph: 3 wickets, pivotal in breaking partnerships
- Kraigg Brathwaite and Keacy Carty: Unbeaten at stumps
Conclusion
Day 2 of the second Test at Sabina Park showcased a masterclass in disciplined bowling and tactical resilience. Jayden Seales’ historic spell set the tone, dismantling Bangladesh’s lineup with surgical precision, while Shamar Joseph provided critical breakthroughs at pivotal moments. Despite a determined fightback from Mehidy Hasan and Taijul Islam, the visitors were unable to post a competitive total.
The West Indies, led by the composed batting of Kraigg Brathwaite and Keacy Carty, have positioned themselves advantageously, trailing by only 94 runs with nine wickets in hand. As Day 3 approaches, the momentum heavily favors the hosts, who will seek to establish a commanding lead. For Bangladesh, it is imperative to strike early and find breakthroughs to remain competitive.
