West Indies Gain Upper Hand as Seales Delivers Historic Spell

Historic Opening Spell

In a remarkable display of fast bowling at Sabina Park, Jayden Seales produced one of the most economical spells in Test cricket history, leading West Indies to a commanding position against Bangladesh on day two of the second Test. Seales’ extraordinary figures of 4 for 5 from 15.5 overs, including 10 maidens, marked the most economical bowling performance in Test cricket since 1977.

Bangladesh Dramatic Collapse

The day belonged to the West Indies pacers, with Shamar Joseph providing crucial breakthroughs that triggered a dramatic Bangladesh collapse. Despite a promising start that saw Bangladesh reach 83 for 2, the visitors crumbled to 98 for 6 in a devastating spell that saw four wickets fall in just 34 balls. Shamar Joseph was particularly effective, claiming three quick wickets including the well-set Shadman Islam, who top-scored with 64.

Key Partnership Broken

The Bangladesh innings featured a resolute 73-run partnership between Shadman and Shahadat Hossain, but once that stand was broken, the floodgates opened. Joshua Da Silva, the West Indies wicketkeeper, was exceptional behind the stumps, collecting four catches as the Bangladesh batsmen struggled against the hostile pace bowling.

Final Resistance and Tail End

A brief resistance came from Mehidy Hasan Miraz (36) and Taijul Islam, who put together a 41-run partnership spanning 116 balls. However, Seales returned to clean up the tail with clinical efficiency, taking the final three wickets for just five runs. The innings featured some spectacular catching, including a remarkable collaborative effort between Da Silva and Alick Athanaze to dismiss Taskin Ahmed.

West Indies Strong Response

In response, West Indies reached 70 for 1 at stumps, trailing by 94 runs. While they lost opener Mikyle Louis early to an impressive spell from Nahid Rana, who consistently touched speeds over 150kph, captain Kraigg Brathwaite (33 not out) and Keacy Carty showed resilience to guide their team to a strong position. Bangladesh’s spinner Taijul Islam maintained pressure with seven maidens in his ten overs, though without success. Bad light forced an early end to play for the second consecutive day, but West Indies will be highly satisfied with their position. The combination of Seales’ historic bowling figures and their solid batting response has put them in control of this Test match, with the opportunity to build a substantial first-innings lead on day three.