The West Indies will resume their first innings on the third morning of the first Test match, in Antigua, on 202/4, replying to England’s 311. Jason Holder is on 43 and Nkrumah Bonner on 34.
To a certain extent, there have been parallels between the two innings so far. Both have featured batting collapses following by partnerships that have helped to rebuild matters.
The difference is that while the England top order found themselves in disarray almost from the start, the West Indian openers, Kraigg Brathwaite and John Campbell, had already put 83 before four wickets fell for the addition of just 44 runs.
West Indies will feel that they squandered some of those wickets with loose shots. However, Bonner and Holder have been at the crease, and have offered very little to the bowlers.
A slow pitch and a ball that was growing ever softer did not help the scoring rate. There were also several interruptions for showers on Thursday, and the weather forecast indicates that more of the same may be expected on Thursday.
With this pair now set at the crease, much may depend on the new ball, which will be due an hour after the start of play.
If England can break the partnership and get at the tail, they may yet be able to restrict West Indies to a reachable lead. However, the ball is likely to come off the bat faster, and if England are as wayward as they were with the first new ball, they may find themselves in for a long and tiring day in the field.
Holder, in particular, has history against England. Three years ago, he had scored his maiden double century in First-class cricket in the first Test match, at his home ground, Kensington Oval/ He will hope for a repeat performance.
Fantasy tips
- The West Indies to pass the England total. Holder hope for another century to lay down a marker for the rest of the series. Back him. He will also bowl later in the day.
- Joe Root is likely to bat at some point in the day. He is due a big score.