Kemar Roach gave the West Indies a strong start on the rain-affected opening day of the Kingston Test, dismissing two Bangladesh batters early. However, sloppy fielding cost the hosts crucial breakthroughs, as three dropped catches allowed Bangladesh to recover and end the day at 69 for 2. Shadman Islam, who reached an unbeaten 50, and Shahadat Hossain, not out on 12, capitalised on the missed opportunities to stabilise the innings after an initial collapse.

The match began five hours late due to a damp outfield, forcing a 3 p.m. local time start under sunny skies. Bangladesh, sent in to bat by captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, found themselves in early trouble as Kemar Roach struck twice within the first seven overs. Roach, who continued his dominance over Bangladesh, dismissed Mahmudul Hasan Joy for two with a sharp edge caught by wicketkeeper Joshua Da Silva and then induced another edge from Mominul Haque, who departed for a duck — his fourth in the West Indies. These early blows left Bangladesh reeling at 10 for 2.

However, Shadman Islam (50 not out) and Shahadat Hossain (12 not out) dug in to steady the innings. Shadman was the beneficiary of two dropped chances, first by Alick Athanaze at slip on 15 and later by Kraigg Brathwaite at short cover on 35. Shahadat also enjoyed a reprieve on 8, thanks to a comical double-drop in the slip cordon involving Athanaze and Kavem Hodge.

The slow, rain-affected outfield further hampered scoring, with several boundaries thwarted just short of the ropes. Shadman, however, managed to bring up his fifty off 100 balls, laced with three fours and a six, while Shahadat played cautiously, adding just one boundary in his 63-ball stay.

For the West Indies, Roach (2-19) was the standout performer, reaching the milestone of 50 wickets against Bangladesh. However, the home side's lackluster fielding undid much of the pressure created by their bowlers.

Rain remains a looming threat for the rest of the match, with forecasts predicting interruptions on each of the remaining days. Bangladesh will hope their overnight pair can build on the modest foundation, while the West Indies will need to regroup and capitalize on any further opportunities that come their way.

Source: India Today

BDST: 1059 HRS, DEC 01, 2024
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