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Australia’s middle order once again proved to be their saviours on the opening day of the second Test against West Indies at the National Cricket Stadium. A crucial century partnership between Alex Carey and Beau Webster anchored the visitors to a respectable total of 286, after a top-order collapse threatened to derail their innings.
Early struggles for Australian top order
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Australia’s top order found themselves in immediate trouble on a pitch that offered variable bounce and considerable movement for the seamers. Openers Sam Konstas and Usman Khawaja provided a brief period of stability before both fell in quick succession, with Khawaja departing for 16. The return of Steve Smith from injury was short-lived, as he managed just 3 runs before being dismissed, leaving Australia reeling at a precarious 50 for 3.
Travis Head and Cameron Green attempted to rebuild the innings, but their efforts were cut short. Head’s dismissal for 29, following a close caught-behind decision that was upheld by the third umpire, further dented Australia’s progress. By the time Green was sent back to the pavilion, the visitors were in deep trouble at 93 for 4. The West Indies’ pace attack, led by the impressive Alzarri Joseph, looked poised to dominate the day, having exploited the early conditions effectively.
Alex Carey and Beau Webster lead resilient fightback
With their top order in disarray, wicketkeeper-batter Carey and all-rounder Webster joined forces at a critical juncture and orchestrated a game-changing 112-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Carey, known for his aggressive approach, counterattacked the West Indies bowlers with crisp strokeplay, notching up his second consecutive Test fifty. His innings of 63 off just 81 balls was a display of intent and precision, but it came to an end when he pulled a delivery from Justin Greaves straight to mid-wicket.
Another crucial knock from Alex Carey 🫡
— Kaustubh (@kaustubh_4579)
Webster, on the other hand, played a more composed and patient knock, effectively blunting the new ball and capitalizing on any loose deliveries that came his way. He compiled a valuable 60 runs from 115 deliveries before being unfortunately run out attempting a risky second run. Their partnership was instrumental not only in rescuing Australia from a potential collapse but also in shifting the momentum back in the visitors’ favour, allowing them to post a respectable total.
Also WATCH: Steve Smith fails on return as Alzarri Joseph strikes in fierce opening spell on Day 1 of WI vs AUS 2nd Test
Another test match, another 50.
Beau Webster, what a player !!!!!
Take a bow.— 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐀𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐚 🦘🇦🇺 (@AdvocateMessi)
The West Indies’ decision to field four frontline quicks paid dividends early on, with Alzarri Joseph emerging as the standout performer, claiming 4 wickets for 61 runs. Anderson Phillip and Shamar Joseph provided able support, effectively exploiting the pitch’s uneven bounce and seam movement. However, the hosts were left to rue several missed opportunities in the field and a noticeable lack of penetration during the crucial Carey-Webster stand.
Another successful outing for Alzarri in St George’s 🙌🏼
Among all the regional venues at which he’s played, his bowling average in Grenada 🇬🇩 is his best 👊🏽 |
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket)
Australia’s lower order also chipped in with useful runs, with captain Pat Cummins contributing 17 before falling to a delivery that kept uncharacteristically low – a sign that batting could become increasingly challenging as the match progresses. The visitors were eventually bowled out for 286 in 66.5 overs. Bad light prevented Australia from having a crack at the West Indies openers before stumps, meaning the hosts will begin their reply on Day 2. With 23 overs lost to rain interruptions on the first day, the match is set for an early start on Day 2.
West Indies bowled out Australia for 286 on Day 1 of 2nd Test 👉
— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ)
