Priyanka Tiwari
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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Bridgetown, Barbados – Debutant Sam Konstas announced his arrival in Test cricket with a composed half-century before Australia’s spinners took charge, leaving the West Indies in deep trouble at the close of play on Day 1 of the first Test at Kensington Oval.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Australia navigated a tricky morning session against the disciplined West Indian attack. The innings was anchored by the impressive Konstas (65), who showed maturity beyond his years. He was well-supported by crucial contributions from Cameron Green and Josh Inglis, who helped push Australia’s total to a competitive 251. For the West Indies, spinners Roston Chase and Jomel Warrican were the chief destroyers, sharing seven wickets between them.
In reply, the West Indian batsmen found themselves entangled in a web spun by Australia's Nathan Lyon and Travis Head. Lyon, in particular, was unplayable, extracting sharp turn and bounce to dismantle the top order. The home side collapsed dramatically, with only captain Shai Hope offering any form of resistance. The pace and accuracy of the Australian attack left the West Indies struggling to build any partnerships.
At stumps, the West Indies were reeling at 115 for 7, still trailing Australia by 136 runs. With only their lower order remaining, they face a monumental task to avoid conceding a significant first-innings lead.
Australia will be looking to wrap up the innings quickly on Day 2 and build an insurmountable lead, while the West Indies will be desperate for a rearguard fightback to stay in the contest.
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