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Richards-Botham Trophy, 2024
England beat West Indies by 241 runs
1st Inn England
ENGLAND
Batsmen
RB4s6sSR
Zak Crawley
03000.00
c Alick Athanaze b Alzarri Joseph
Ben Duckett
7159140120.34
c Jason Holder b Shamar Joseph
Ollie Pope
12116715172.46
c Kavem Hodge b Alzarri Joseph
Joe Root
14292048.28
c Alzarri Joseph b Jayden Seales
Harry Brook
363451105.88
c Kirk Mckenzie b Kevin Sinclair
Ben Stokes (C)
691048066.35
c sub Jeremiah Louis b Kavem Hodge
Jamie Smith (W)
36542266.67
c Jason Holder b Kavem Hodge
Chris Woakes
37483077.08
c Jason Holder b Jayden Seales
Gus Atkinson
250040.00
c Kavem Hodge b Kevin Sinclair
Mark Wood
13290044.83
not out
Shoaib Bashir
5410125.00
c Jason Holder b Alzarri Joseph
Bowlers
OMRWEcon
Alzarri Joseph
15.319836.32
Jayden Seales
1519026.00
Jason Holder
1406004.29
Shamar Joseph
11.324413.83
Kevin Sinclair
2207323.32
Kraigg Brathwaite
0.30204.00
Kavem Hodge
1004424.40
1st Inn West Indies
WEST INDIES
Batsmen
RB4s6sSR
Kraigg Brathwaite (C)
48728066.67
c Ollie Pope b Gus Atkinson
Mikyle Louis
21412051.22
c Harry Brook b Shoaib Bashir
Kirk Mckenzie
11272040.74
c Ben Stokes b Shoaib Bashir
Alick Athanaze
829910182.83
c Harry Brook b Ben Stokes
Kavem Hodge
12017119070.18
lbw b Chris Woakes
Jason Holder
27764035.53
c Jamie Smith b Chris Woakes
Joshua Da Silva (W)
8212210367.21
not out
Kevin Sinclair
4140028.57
c Harry Brook b Gus Atkinson
Alzarri Joseph
10291034.48
c Jamie Smith b Chris Woakes
Jayden Seales
01000.00
b Chris Woakes
Shamar Joseph
332752122.22
c Gus Atkinson b Mark Wood
Bowlers
OMRWEcon
Chris Woakes
2818443.00
Gus Atkinson
24.5410724.31
Mark Wood
19.647113.55
Shoaib Bashir
25010824.32
Ben Stokes
1206115.08
Joe Root
201909.50
2nd Inn England
ENGLAND
Batsmen
RB4s6sSR
Zak Crawley
340075.00
run out (Jayden Seales)
Ben Duckett
769211082.61
lbw b Alzarri Joseph
Ollie Pope
51676076.12
c Kevin Sinclair b Alzarri Joseph
Joe Root
12217810068.54
c Kirk Mckenzie b Jason Holder
Harry Brook
10913213082.58
c Joshua Da Silva b Jayden Seales
Ben Stokes (C)
8191042.11
c Alzarri Joseph b Jayden Seales
Jamie Smith (W)
670085.71
c Joshua Da Silva b Kevin Sinclair
Chris Woakes
12231052.17
c Jason Holder b Shamar Joseph
Gus Atkinson
21263080.77
not out
Mark Wood
07000.00
b Jayden Seales
Shoaib Bashir
03000.00
b Jayden Seales
Bowlers
OMRWEcon
Alzarri Joseph
20010325.15
Jayden Seales
22.219744.34
Shamar Joseph
1907513.95
Jason Holder
1525413.60
Kevin Sinclair
1517815.20
Kraigg Brathwaite
10606.00
2nd Inn West Indies
WEST INDIES
Batsmen
RB4s6sSR
Kraigg Brathwaite (C)
47488097.92
c Jamie Smith b Chris Woakes
Mikyle Louis
17402042.50
c Jamie Smith b Chris Woakes
Kirk Mckenzie
150020.00
c Jamie Smith b Shoaib Bashir
Alick Athanaze
112008.33
c Joe Root b Shoaib Bashir
Kavem Hodge
04000.00
lbw b Shoaib Bashir
Jason Holder
37424288.10
b Shoaib Bashir
Kevin Sinclair
117005.88
c Zak Crawley b Mark Wood
Joshua Da Silva (W)
14261153.85
lbw b Gus Atkinson
Alzarri Joseph
02000.00
b Gus Atkinson
Jayden Seales
8101080.00
not out
Shamar Joseph
8111072.73
b Shoaib Bashir
Bowlers
OMRWEcon
Chris Woakes
832823.50
Gus Atkinson
914925.44
Mark Wood
821712.13
Shoaib Bashir
11.124153.67
West Indies
143/10(36.1 Overs)
And with that, we end our discussion for the time being. The one-hour sermon is completed and it is time to take a pause. No no, not from the game - but from our discussions. Because the action is about to begin. And when there is action happening out there in the middle, let that speak for itself. Hardly a cloud is seen in the sky as Ben Stokes leads his side out to the middle. Excellent crowd with the first three days being sold out, informed by Nasser Hussain on air. No Jimmy Anderson, remem
Normally, in England, pitches tend to quicken from Day 2. And the fast bowlers usually come to the party, especially on the second day. Then, the pitch slowly starts to flatten out and perhaps take some turn come Days 4 and 5. So the best batting conditions would be from today onwards and the tourists have been given another opportunity - get the best of batting conditions and make use of the willow. Yes, the opposition has got 400-plus, but thanks to their batting approach, don't you have quali
Given that we always like to take detours, let's take a turn now. We mentioned about a legend so shall talk a bit about his department. Bowling. More prominently, spin. Whether it was Shamar Joseph's discomfort or whether it was the fact that the second new ball was around the corner and the quicks needed to be rested - Kraigg Brathwaite turned to spin seriously around the 70-over mark and by the end of the day, 4 wickets had gone to the tweakers - 2 apiece to Kevin Sinclair and Kavem Hodge. S
We now cast a look at the rest of the batters and barring Stokes and Crawley, everyone else got in and got out. It is understood that is, in essence, what Bazball implies - keep attacking. But the last time when I checked the rule book, nowhere was it mentioned that a batting side should bat for only one day in a Test. So why the hurry? If batters are going to come in, get set and then throw it away, how good will it do for a viewer? Wasn't this same thing exposed first by Australia and then, br
For people following English cricket, this would not be the first time Ollie Pope has been compared to an Ian Bell or Joe Root. That's primarily because of the way he bats, with technique extremely solid and footwork totally assured. On paper. In reality, he has been just a prolonged advert of what big is to come. But for how long will the advert last and people wait for the actual movie? In 79 innings in Tests, Pope has crossed the 50-mark 18 times - that's roughly one every 4-5 innings. But
It was another of many, not only for West Indies, but for England as well. We mentioned about Ollie Pope and for a reason. Not just because of his 121, but because the first 50-odd runs never gave any assurance of him being set at the crease. He was dropped twice, on either side of the Lunch break and he was more than happy to make the Windies pay. That's one of many for West Indies - try and look competitive numerous times in Tests, only to kick opportunities with both feet and letting the oppo
No disrespect at all to any English fan. The cricket played by their team has been supreme with their superior skills clearly visible on display. But as any neutral cricket fan would wish, a CONTEST is what is anticipated when a fixture is announced. Test cricket is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport as it tests the players' resolve, again and again. And when that happens and players pass that test, it brings a joy to watch for a viewer. But when there is barely a test for someone and th
Sadly, the second Test has also begun on the same note. Not because England have raked 400-plus in a day. But because we are not sure whether there was any plan in place by the West Indies in their bowling. And if there was any, it was clearly not followed. The first new ball was wasted, being sprayed on both sides of the wicket, with the lengths not being consistent and England capitalized. In fact, the visitors would have totally forgotten that they had Zak Crawley caught in the slip cordon o
For all those who could not catch the action on Day 1 of the second Test, it was purely action packed, with 416 runs scored at around 4.7 an over, with 10 wickets falling. And to add, 90 overs were not even bowled. West Indies chose to bowl on what teams normally do in English conditions, with the pitch predicted to get better on subsequent days. But then, England chose to attack and not only did they attack the ball, they attacked the mindset and soul of the visitors. One look at the scorecard
Watch out! The next season of your favourite web series is set to release on so and so date. I am sure, in this digital age of OTT platforms, many of us would have already got hooked onto the habit of watching web series and what not on the digital platform. Seems like Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes have taken an inspiration from the same. After Bazball was heavily criticized in India, that method seemingly took a break in the first Test at Lord's. But come the second Test, it is back. And back
... DAY 2 ...
England will aim to come out all guns blazing early on Day 2, looking to press their dominance with the ball. West Indies will need to survive that crucial first hour, where the ball is likely to do most of the talking, and then focus on stitching together small partnerships to give themselves a chance for a strong comeback in this Test.
Right then, that's a wrap for Day 1, with England firmly in the driver's seat thanks to some extraordinary batting performances. West Indies will be hoping for a stronger start on Day 2 as they look to mount a comeback. Join us for all the action on Day 2, starting at 3.30 pm IST (10 am GMT). Until then, cheers and goodbye!
In the final session, West Indies tightened their approach, securing the prized wicket of Ollie Pope. However, they struggled to capitalize on the breakthrough, allowing Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith to form another 50+ partnership. Stokes eventually fell for a well-compiled 69. The spinners then regained some control, with Kavem Hodge claiming two wickets to expose the tail. Despite some resistance from Mark Wood and Chris Woakes, West Indies wrapped things up efficiently, claiming all remainin
In the second session, West Indies began with tight bowling that resulted in the dismissal of Joe Root. However, they struggled to maintain momentum as their bowlers faltered, compounded by a couple of missed opportunities in the field. After a promising start, Harry Brook fell quickly, but Ollie Pope capitalized on being dropped twice to notch up a century, ultimately closing the session in England's favour.
This has been a fantastic end to the day's play as England firmly grasp control of the second Test match ending their first innings with 416 runs on the board at the end of Day 1. West Indies after a tough day did well in this final session to pull things back and wrap this English side up. In the final session, 35.3 overs saw 157 runs scored, but more importantly for West Indies, they managed to claim 6 crucial wickets.
England seized control of the game in the very first session despite an early setback in the opening over. Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope capitalized on loose deliveries from the West Indies bowlers, laying a solid foundation before Duckett's dismissal. Joe Root then partnered with Ollie Pope to guide the team safely to Lunch with 134 runs on the board. West Indies managed to tighten their bowling towards the end of the session, gaining some momentum heading into the break.
Alzarri Joseph to Shoaib Bashir, ! CAUGHT! The outside edge goes to hand this time! Alzarri Joseph wraps up the England innings! Alzarri Joseph hurls it in, on a nagging length, on off, Shoaib Bashir stays on the back foot and hops to get on top of the bounce. Looks to defend it out with a straight bat but gets an outside edge again. It goes low but straight into the hands of second slip where Jason Holder is expecting the edge and he stays low to grab it low in front.
Alzarri Joseph to Shoaib Bashir, ! Edged away! Alzarri Joseph delivers it on a hard length, tighter line, on off and middle, Shoaib Bashir gets on his toes and shows the full face of the bat to cover the line of the ball. Gets an outside edge that flies towards gully and it beats Alick Athanaze to his right for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, NO BALL! Joseph serves it full this time, around off, Mark Wood backs away to access the off side and has to reach out to drive it to deep point for a single. Alzarri Joseph has overstepped!
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, Joseph bends his back and digs it in short, outside off, Mark Wood is happy to let that one go behind to the keeper.
Alzarri Joseph will bowl the final over of the day.Â
Jayden Seales to Mark Wood, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Mark Wood, Big swing and a miss! Short of a length and zoning in, around middle and leg, Mark Wood clears his front leg and leaves nothing in the tank as he swings to go back over the bowler's head but misses and gets beaten on the inside edge.
Jayden Seales to Shoaib Bashir, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Shoaib Bashir, No run.
Shoaib Bashir will be the last man to walk in for England.
Jayden Seales to Chris Woakes, ! EDGED AND GONE! Jayden Seales gets his line and length right this time and he gets the reward!
Jayden Seales to Chris Woakes, ! Neatly done! Jayden Seales sprays it on the pads and it is full in length, Chris Woakes stays balanced in the crease and with a still head, clips it through mid-wicket for a boundary.
Jayden Seales (14-1-84-1)Â to share the new ball from the other end.
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, Joseph goes slightly wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and spears it in, full and at the pads, Mark Wood clips it nicely but straight to mid on.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, Joseph goes slightly fuller this time, on off, Chris Woakes stays rooted in the crease and dabs it past backward point for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, At 142 kph, on a good length by Joseph, on off, Chris Woakes gets his bat out in front of his body to keep it out the ball climbs onto him off the deck and hits him high on the bat.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, Honing in at the stumps, on a length, Chris Woakes covers the line of the ball and defends it out on the off side.
Right then, West Indies have finally opted to take the new ball. It will be Alzarri Joseph to have the first bite at this second new ball.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, ! Too straight and these are easy pickings!
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Hodge attacks the stumps with a full delivery, Chris Woakes knocks it down to long on for one as England move to 397.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Fuller in length, on off, Mark Wood eases it to long off and gets to the other end.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Hodge serves it flat and short, over middle, Mark Wood punches it back to Hodge.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, There's that tempter by Hodge, looped up, full and wide on off, Mark Wood is happy to let that one go.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Too straight, full and on the pads by Hodge, Chris Woakes tickles it fine towards the fine leg fence for a couple of runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Fuller this time by Sinclair, on off and middle, Mark Wood drives it straight back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Keeps it flat and short, on middle and leg, Mark Wood goes back in his crease and defends it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Sinclair bowls it short, on middle, Chris Woakes rocks back and nurdles it past square leg for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, ! Good use of the feet! Sinclair floats it up, full and on off, Chris Woakes shimmies down the track and times the drive to the right of Jason Holder at mid off for a boundary.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Drops it short now, on off, Chris Woakes gets on the back foot and slaps it past point for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Pushes it through this time, on off, Mark Wood knocks it down to long off for a single with a straight bat.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Nicely bowled! Slows it up and keeps it away from the batter's reach, outside off, fuller as well, Mark Wood reaches out but fails to connect.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, 2 runs.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, This is flat and short, at the stumps, Chris Woakes gets on one knee and paddles it over the keeper for a couple of runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tosses it up, full and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to deep cover for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Fuller in length and on off, Chris Woakes pushes it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tossed up, on off, Chris Woakes gets a good stride out before blocking it right under his eyes.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Bowls it full and on the off stump line, Mark Wood drives it to cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, 3 runs.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Tosses this one up outside off, Mark Wood cuts it to backward point.Â
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Bowls it full and on off, Mark Wood drives it down to mid off.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Has that been grassed?
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
The new ball is now due for West Indies! Will they go for it right away?
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Short and on off, Mark Wood punches it down to long off for one.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Floats it up, full and on off, Mark Wood drills it hard but straight to cover.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Floated up, full and at the stumps, Chris Woakes blocks it out down the deck.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, 1 run.
Mark Wood walks out to bat at number 10 for England.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, ! c Kavem Hodge b Kevin Sinclair.
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, Loops this one up on a fuller length and on off, Gus Atkinson blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Fuller and on middle and leg, Chris Woakes flicks it to square leg for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Gus Atkinson, No run.
Is that out? There has been an umpire's review for Run-out at the bowler's end.Â
Kavem Hodge to Gus Atkinson, Fires this one short and drifting into middle and leg, Gus Atkinson rocks back and trickles it down to fine leg for a couple to get off the mark.Â
Gus Atkinson walks out to bat at number 9 for England.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! c Jason Holder b Kavem Hodge.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! Clean strike!
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Full and sliding on, middle, Jamie Smith defends it out on the leg side.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Drops it short and on off, Chris Woakes punches it down to long off for one.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Beaten!
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Full and on middle, Jamie Smith lunges and knocks it to the right of the bowler but can't get it past the man at short mid on.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Short and on middle, punched off the back toot to long on for one by Woakes.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tossed up around off, Chris Woakes taps it to the fielder at cover.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Goes full and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to deep cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Darts this one full and into the stumps, Chris Woakes gets his bat down and jams it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Fuller and quicker, on off, Chris Woakes works it to cover again.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Coming in with the angle, full and on off, Chris Woakes pushes it to cover.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Lands it full again, on off and middle, Chris Woakes gets on the front foot to defend.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Attacks the stumps, on a nagging length, Jamie Smith gets right behind the line of the ball and pushes it to mid on.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, ! Creamed away!
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Fuller and wide on off, Jamie Smith reaches out and slices it past backward point for a couple of runs.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, That could have so nearly trickled back onto the stumps! Full and slanting in from over the wicket, on middle and leg, Jamie Smith walks right across his stumps and lifts his back leg to play the flick shot but misses.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Angling in, on a nagging length, around off, Chris Woakes plays it right under his eyeline as he steers it past gully for a single. The 350 comes up for England!
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Darted in, short and at the stumps, Jamie Smith stays back and blocks it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Pulls the length back and spears it in, outside off, Chris Woakes hangs back and dabs it square of the wicket on the off side for one.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Slows it up and gets a bit of away turn, full and just outside off, Jamie Smith plays it with the turn to deep cover for a run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Fired in, fuller and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to the right of the diving cover fielder for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, A bit fuller and at the stumps, Chris Woakes lunges and pats it back to the bowler.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Speared in, on a nagging length, on middle, Chris Woakes defends it off the front foot.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, In the channel on off, on a good length, Jamie Smith does not quite get behind the line of the ball and extends his hands to steer it along the ground towards gully.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Holder goes slightly wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and delivers it on a back of a length, over the off pole, Jamie Smith gets on his toes and keeps it out on the off side.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Hurls it on a back of a length, on middle, Chris Woakes hops back and nudges it to deep mid-wicket and gets to the other end.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Beaten! This comes in with the angle, on a good length, just outside off, Chris Woakes gets on the front foot to defend it out but plays inside the line of the ball and gets beaten on the outside edge.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Hooping back in from a wide angle, full and on off, Chris Woakes gets his bat out in front of the pads and plays it back to the bowler.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Short and wide on off, at 128 kph, Jamie Smith hangs back and frees his arms to cut it through point for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Drops it short again, on off, Jamie Smith stands tall and punches it to deep cover to keep the strike with a single. End of a successful over for Kavem Hodge and West Indies.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Drags the length back and attacks the stumps, Jamie Smith gets on the back foot and keeps it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Floated up, full and on off, Chris Woakes presses forward and drives it past cover for a single to get off the mark.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Angling in from around the wicket, full and on middle, Chris Woakes blocks it out off the front foot.
Chris Woakes walks out to bat at number 8 for England.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, ! STRAIGHT TO THE FIELDER! Maiden Test wicket for Kavem Hodge and it is the big one of Ben Stokes! The English skipper could not have picked the fielder out there in the deep any better.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Drifts it in, full from around the wicket, on middle, Ben Stokes clips it straight to mid-wicket.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Length delivery, coming back in, outside off, Jamie Smith shuffles across and comes down the track to push it back to the bowler.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, A bit fuller at 128 kph, outside off, Jamie Smith makes a late decision to glide it along the ground to gully.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Goes wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle, on a length, tailing in, on off, Jamie Smith covers the line of the ball and stabs it down the deck.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Angling in from over the wicket, on a back of a length, on off, Jamie Smith hops back and blocks it out with a straight bat as the ball pops up a bit off the deck.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and hits the deck hard, over off, Ben Stokes waits on the back foot and dabs it to deep point for a single.
Drinks break! England have managed to add 82 runs in the first hour after Tea, taking their total to 341. Both Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith have largely been untroubled and are ticking along nicely. West Indies are yet to show any real signs of aggression, despite taking wickets intermittently. This lack of sustained pressure is an issue they need to address promptly heading into this final hour of play on Day 1.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! Sheer power behind that!
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Darts another one full and onto the stumps, Ben Stokes cuts it to deep cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Shorter in length and on off, Ben Stokes makes room and cuts it to deep cover for a couple more.Â
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, On a length, into the stumps, Jamie Smith tucks it along the ground to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, On a length, just outside off, Ben Stokes cuts it to the right of deep point for a couple of runs. Also brings up the 50-run stand between these two.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, ! Nice shot! Holder digs it short outside off, Ben Stokes swivels and pulls it firmly through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Goes full and hurls it outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to covers.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and lands it on a good length, on off, Ben Stokes blocks it to covers.Â
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Quicker this time and flighted on a fuller length, on off, Jamie Smith defends it on the front foot.Â
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Switches to around the wicket and drags the length short and lands it around middle and leg, Jamie Smith tucks it away to deep square leg for a single.Â
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Starts from over the wicket and tosses it full on the stumps, Ben Stokes nudges it to long on for a single.
Change.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Bowls it straight and attacks the stumps, on a hard length, Jamie Smith is hurried a bit but does well to keep it out.Â
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, On a back of a length, over off, Jamie Smith dabs it down the deck.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Full and into the pads, Ben Stokes clips it to square leg.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, On a length, just outside off, Ben Stokes charges down the track and looks to go big over mid off but slices it to deep covers for a couple of runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Bowls this quicker and fuller into the pads, Ben Stokes is quick on getting back deep in the crease as he clips it down to fine leg for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on the stumps, Ben Stokes taps it to mid on.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Tosses this one up, outside off, Jamie Smith drives it straight to covers.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, With a flatter trajectory, bowls this one full and on off, Jamie Smith rocks back and punches it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Bowls a low full toss outside off, Jamie Smith drives it straight to the man at covers.Â
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Fuller and outside off, Jamie Smith drives it well to deep point for a single.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Top running! Jason Holder bowls it with the angle coming in around middle and leg, Ben Stokes looks to block but gets an inside edge through his legs. Jamie Smith calls for the run as the folder from square leg charges in and throws a direct hit at the striker's end. Smith was well within the crease!
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, A tad shorter in length and outside off, Ben Stokes looks to cut it late but gets beaten on the outside edge with the extra bounce and pace behind it.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and lands it on a good length, just outside off, Ben Stokes defends it to cover.
-
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Shorter and outside off, Ben Stokes hangs back and cuts it to deep point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, NO BALL! Kevin Sinclair oversteps this time. Bowls it full and on off, Ben Stokes drives it straight back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and slanting into middle and off, Ben Stokes blocks it right under his eyes.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller, on off, Ben Stokes makes room and pushes it to cover.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drags the length down over off, Ben Stokes cuts it to backward point who does well diving to his right to keep it down to just a dot!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller on the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it out on the backfoot.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, On a back of a length, on off, Jamie Smith punches it with a straight bat back tot he bowler who does well to get his right arm down on his follow-through to make a stop.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Lands it on a shorter length, outside off, Jamie Smith punches it to cover.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Goes full and outside off, Jamie Smith drives it with full control in the gap between cover and point. The fielder charges the ball towards the fence and flicks it back in time. The batters get three good runs off it.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Comes from over the wicket and bangs the deck on a length, over the stumps, Jamie Smith opens up his stance and blocks it down the pitch.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drifiting in, full and at the stumps, Ben Stokes presses forward and works it straight to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Turning in a touch, fuller and on the pads, clipped straight to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Keeps it on a nagging length, on middle, Jamie Smith goes on the back foot and pats it back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Darts it in, flat and short, outside off, Ben Stokes rocks back and punches it in front of square on the off side for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Very full, on off, Ben Stokes firms the drive straight to a straightish short cover.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Four!
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Attacks the stumps on a good length, Jamie Smith gets his bat ahead and stabs it down the deck.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a length, outside off, Ben Stokes slashes it to deep backward point for a single.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Short and outside off, Ben Stokes slaps it to deep cover for a couple of runs.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Four!
Jayden Seales (12-1-69-1) is back for a burst.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Continues to keep it full and lands it around off, Jamie Smith drives it to mid off.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Full and outside off, Jamie Smith looks to slice it away but gets a thick outside edge to short third who makes a mess out of it allowing the batters two runs.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Angles this into the pads on a hard length, Jamie Smith hops back and tucks it to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a short of a length over middle, Ben Stokes pulls it to deep square leg for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Comes from over the wicket and hits the deck hard on a tight length into the bodyline, Ben Stokes gets cramped for room as he looks to flick it across the line and wears it on the pads.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Takes pace off and bowls it nice and full, on off, Jamie Smith blocks it back onto the deck.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Skids this one through on a fuller length and into the pads, Ben Stokes tucks it to mid-wicket for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Four!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on off, Ben Stokes gets a good stride out and pushes it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller on off, Ben Stokes blocks it on the front foot.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Full and on off, Ben Stokes drops his bat with delicate hands and cuts it to deep backward point for a single to end the over.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, WIDE! Digs it short and down leg! Ben Stokes ducks just enough to leave this one alone.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Beautiful shot! On a back of a length over middle, Ben Stokes is quick on getting on the backfoot and pulls it through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a good length, over off, Ben Stokes punches it to covers.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Follows up with a hard-length delivery, on off, Jamie Smith pushes it to covers.Â
Jamie Smith makes his way out to the centre.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! EDGED AND GONE! Alzarri Joseph gets the big, big wicket of Ollie Pope!Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Quicker this time, on a fuller length and on off, Ben Stokes drives it to short cover, yet gain.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Loops it full and into middle and off, Ben Stokes blocks it on the front foot.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Floated up, outside off, Ben Stokes frees his arms and drives it to deep cover for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a length, outside off, Ben Stokes opens the bat face and drives it to deep point for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a back of a length, around off, Ben Stokes slices it to point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Four!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No ball!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, At 139 kph, hurls it on a nagging length, angled across on middle and off, Ben Stokes hops back and dabs it out to the off side.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Slower through the air and on a fuller length around middle and leg, Ollie Pope clips it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and attacking the stumps, Ollie Pope digs it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drags the length short around off, Ollie Pope rocks back and cuts it to backward point.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Four!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to cover who throws a dive to his left only to get a hand to it as the batters scamper across for a single.
It will be spin in the form of Kevin Sinclair from the other end.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and on off, Ollie Pope drives it to long on for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes looks to cut it square on off but misses.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Two in the over for Ben Stokes! Alzarri Joseph digs it short and over middle, Ben Stokes swivels in the crease and pulls it all along the ground to deep backward square leg fence for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Angles this across on a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes holds his bat high and makes the leave.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Change of ends hasn't quite worked well as Alzarri Joseph bowls another freebie! Too full and outside off, asking to be hit. Ben Stokes leans on and drives it well past point for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
We are back.
⦠DAY 1, SESSION THREE ...
Having mentioned all of the above, West Indies need to believe that they can cause England to make mistakes. There have been a few flashy shots, a few streaky shots and the hosts have ridden their luck. There is experience in Pope and Stokes while Smith is in form, but that middle order still looks shaky. As Sir Geoffrey Boycott used to say - always look at the score with two wickets added to it and the game changes quickly.
You reap as you sow. We all know this proverb. West Indies are making a lifetime out of this. In almost every Test that they play, they give glimpses of their talent, only to put that into the bin by some carelessness. Even in this Test, in spite of the bowling being ordinary, the chances were created, only to be shelled. And add to that, Shamar Joseph's niggle doesn't help things. It seems like a long session is on the cards for the bowlers.
Ben Stokes has gotten off to a good start and this 5th-wicket stand has also crossed 50, making it 3 50+stands for the last 4 wickets. The hosts still have Jamie Smith to come, who had a phenomenal debut Test. What has been interesting is - in stark contrast to the previous Test, Bazball is clearly on display here, wherein Ben Stokes is keen to keep the scoring rate high at all times.
Another solid session for England where runs came at a good clip. From the 27 overs bowled in the session, 125 runs were scored at 4.63 runs per over. As play began after Lunch, England were dealt an early blow in the form of Joe Root. Coming in at the departure of Joe Root, Harry Brook made his intentions clear straight away and put the Windies bowlers to the sword. However, he failed to kick on and departed for 36. Dropped on either side of the Lunch break, Ollie Pope carried on his merry w
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ben Stokes, Full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to long off for a single. And that will be TEA on Day 1 with the scoreboard reading 259/4.
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ben Stokes, Bowls it full with the round-arm action, coming into the left-hander around middle and leg, Ben Stokes eases it to mid-wicket.
Shamar Joseph seems to be experiencing discomfort in his left hamstring and he is stretching himself out. The physio is out to have a look and Joseph is walking off the field. It will be Kraigg Brathwaite to complete the over. Due to this delay, it will now certainly be the final over before Tea.
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ollie Pope, Comes from around the wicket and slides this one full and outside off, Ollie Pope waits back and cuts to to third man for a single.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Stokes, Edged and falls short! Comes from around the wicket and bangs it on a nagging length, just outside off, Ben Stokes looks for the drive but gets an outside edge falling short of the third slip.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and hurls it on a back of a length, angling into middle, Ollie Pope clips it past mid-wicket for a single.Â
Shamar Joseph is back for what could be the penultimate over before Tea.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Slants this full and into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Shorter length and width on offer, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to deep backward point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Quicker and fuller into off, Ollie Pope blocks it back to the bowelr.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Loops this on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes slaps it to deep cover for a single.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a shorter length and into middle and off, Ben Stokes dabs it in front of mid-wicket and squeezes a single to bring up the fifty-run partnership between these two.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Gets the bouncer right this time does Jayden Seales! Bends his back and hits the deck hard over off, Ben Stokes sways away from the line.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Looks for the bouncer and hits the deck hard down leg. Ben Stokes looks to pull it away but the ball keeps low off the pitch.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes leaves it alone.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Top effort in the deep to keep it down to just two!
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on middle and leg, Ollie Pope tucks it to mid-wicket.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, A tad fuller and on off, Ollie Pope gets on the front foot but cuts it late to deep backward point for a couple of runs.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on off, Ollie Pope gets his front leg ahead and blocks it right under his eyes.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Bowls it full, on off, Ben Stokes pushes it to mid off.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, A few good-looking shots that haven't fetched him a single run! This is full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it straight to cover.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Width on offer outside off, on a fuller length, Ben Stokes leans ahead and crisps it to the fielder at backward point.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes watchfully leaves it alone.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes drives it off the center of the bat but finds the man at covers.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, A slight fumble from the bowler allows the single. Too full and on off, Ben Stokes drives it to the right of the bowler who gets to the ball quickly but doesn't bend down enough to make the stop.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Slants this full and into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drags the length short and wider than off, Ollie Pope rocks back quickly nad cuts it to deep point for one.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Quicker and fuller into the stumps, Ollie Pope gets a good stride out and blocks it.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, A sharp bouncer around middle and off, Ben Stokes sways away as this one zips past him.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Full and attacking the off stump line, Ollie Pope gets his bat ahead and pushes it past the bowler and to the left of mid on for a single.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Goes a tad fuller around off, Ollie Pope with soft hands blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Hits the hard length, around off, Ollie Pope blocks it back onto the deck.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, LEG BYES! Jayden Seales bangs it into the deck on a length and on leg, Ollie Pope looks to tuck it away fine but doesn't connect. The ball brushes his thigh pad and races away to the fine leg fence for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Moves to 99 with that single! Too full, on off, Ollie Pope whips it down to long on for one.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, ! Errs in line for once and pays the price! Bowls it down leg, on a fuller length, Ollie Pope gets low on a knee and sweeps it fine past the keeper for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on off, Ollie Pope drives it to sweeper cover for a brace.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, A no-look reverse sweep that! Tossed up around off, Ollie Pope reverse sweeps it to deep point for a couple of runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a length, outside off. The ball kicks off the surface and Ben Stokes leaves it alone. A good end to the over from Jason Holder!
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Fuller and on off, Ben Stokes drives it on the full but straight to mid off.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Angles this one across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes leaves it alone.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Too full this time into middle and leg, Ollie Pope clips it past mid-wicket. Alzarri Joseph from mid on chases the ball and does well to push it back into play. The batters get three runs off it.Â
A change of bat for Ben Stokes. The selection has been done and we are all good to go.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, ! Gets it through the gap beautifully! Jason Holder serves this juicy half-volley outside off, Ollie Pope leans ahead and creams it through covers for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Fires this one quicker and into the stumps, Ben Stokes pats it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drags the length a tad shorter and on off, Ben Stokes pushes it to cover.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Tosses this one full and slanting into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it to the off side.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ben Stokes gets his front leg out and taps it back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Too full and just outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to cover.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Bowls it slower and fuller, outside off, Ollie Pope reaches out and slashes it over backward point for a single to end the over.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, On a length just outside off, Ollie Pope leans on it and drives it straight to the man at cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Full and angles into the pads, Ollie Pope clips it to mid-wicket.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Goes full again but attacks the stumps, Ollie Pope drives it to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, ! Errs in line and Ollie Pope makes full use of it! Too full and into the pads, Ollie Pope flicks it well through the square leg region for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Steams from over the wicket and bangs the deck on a good length, outside off, Ollie Pope watches the line and shoulders arms.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Bowls it full and outside off, Ollie Pope looks for the cut but misses out.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on the pads, Ben Stokes clips it square of the wicket on the leg side for a single to get off the mark.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
The captain of England, Ben Stokes walks in now.
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, ! c Kirk Mckenzie b Kevin Sinclair.
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, Goes full and attacks the stumps, Harry Brook blocks it right under his eyes.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, End of a good over from Jason Holder! Bangs it on a fuller length, outside off with some away movement off the deck, Ollie Pope holds his bat up and leaves this one alone.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Takes some pace off and bowls it full, outside off, Ollie Pope drives it well but straight to cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Continues to keep it tight around the fourth stump line, on a nagging length, Ollie Pope watchfully blocks it out.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Goes fuller and outside off, Ollie Pope drives it straight to mid off.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, On a length, outside off, Harry Brook cuts it hard to the left of deep point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, Bowls this quicker and fuller just outside off. The ball skids through and stays a bit low. Harry Brook adjusts well on the backfoot and cuts it to deep point for a single. Brings up the 200 runs for England!
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Tosses it up around middle and off, Ollie Pope pushes it to long on and gets a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Bowls this one full and onto middle and leg, Ollie Pope punches it to mid-wicket.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Flatter and fuller, into the pads, Ollie Pope clips it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Flights this one fuller and on off, Ollie Pope takes a big stride out and blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Drinks! England maintain a firm grip in the first half of this session, taking full advantage of West Indies' erratic bowling. Despite losing Joe Root, the team has capitalized on loose deliveries and made the most of it asserting their dominance in this session. West Indies will be desperate to regroup and tighten their bowling, as opportunities for wickets have slipped through their fingers with a couple of crucial dropped catches. The stage is perfectly set for an exciting conclusion to th
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, No run.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Another misfield!
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Fuller in length, on off, Harry Brook drives it well but straight to cover.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Gets the ball to tail back in from wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle, on the sixth stump line, on a hard length, Harry Brook reads it well, covers his off pole and lets it go.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, A fumble and they get back for the second run!
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Begins his new spell from over the wicket and goes full, outside off, Harry Brook watchfully leaves the ball alone.
Jason Holder (4-0-21-0) comes back into the attack.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, In and around the sixth stump line, on a good length, Ollie Pope covers the line of the ball and pats it back to the bowler. A maiden by Joseph!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes full at 130 kph, outside off, a tempter for Ollie Pope who does not fall for the trap and shoulders arms.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, This straightens up a bit off the deck, on a short of a good length, on off, Ollie Pope waits on the back foot and stabs it down on the off side.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, At 134 kph, outside off, on a length, Ollie Pope is happy to let that one go.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Touch fuller by Joseph and it moves away a bit, outside off, Ollie Pope lunges and drives it straight to mid off.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a short of a good length, around off, Ollie Pope punches it to cover.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Into the wicket by Joseph but the line is around leg, Harry Brook ducks and lets it go.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Fuller in length, on off, driven back towards the bowler by Brook. Holder makes a half stop in his follow through and parries it to mid off.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Cracking shot! Alzarri Joseph bends his back and digs it in short. This is not a bad delivery by any means. In the channel on off, on a shortish length, Harry Brook does not have much room to work with but he arches back and creates the room. Gets on top of the bounce nicely and slaps it over the deep backward point fence for a six.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Digs this short and hits the deck hard outside off, Harry Brook looks to slash it over point but makes no connection.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Gets enough on it! Shamar Joseph errs in line and sprays this fuller-length delivery into middle and leg, Ollie Pope glances it fine for a boundary to end the over.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes full and lands it around middle and off, Ollie Pope with delicate hands pushes it to mid off.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Gets the line a touch closer to the off stump and on a length, Ollie Pope rocks back and cuts it well but still fails to find the gap.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a length, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it hard but straight to backward point.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Continues to bowl it straight but angles this one inform wider of the crease, Ollie Pope clips this to mid-wicket again.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ollie Pope flicks it straight to the man at mid-wicket.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Was that a chance? Did that carry? Yes, it certainly did. Alick Athanaze puts it down again!
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Tighter line as this one zips through, on a back of a length, on off, Harry Brook watchfully leaves it alone.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, ! On another day, that would have crashed onto the stumps! Ollie Pope is living a charmed life here.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, A bit fuller this time, on off, Ollie Pope lunges and times the drive to mid off.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Good shot but equally well fielded!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Make that a hat-trick of fours! A nothing delivery by Joseph as this is short but no real pace or bounce on it to trouble the batter. Harry Brook gets his weight on the back foot and glides it between gully and backward point for four more runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Class written all over this one!
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Shot! Hit with real authority! Joseph errs in line as he serves it wide outside off, on a length, Harry Brook frees his arms and cracks the drive through covers for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Oh, what happened there?
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the hard length, over middle, Ollie Pope swivels and gets on top of the bounce to pull it to deep backward square leg for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, On a back of a length, on off, Harry Brook hangs back and dabs it towards point.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, Wide!
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, At the stumps, on a good length, Harry Brook gets behind the line of the ball and blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, Four!
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, ! Nowhere in control and Brook gets lucky!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Poor delivery and duly punished!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a back of a length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and punches it past backward point for a couple of runs.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Jason Holder drops this one at the second slip!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands this on a good length just around off, Ollie Pope dabs it back onto the deck.Â
Shamar Joseph to Harry Brook, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, A beauty to end the over! Hits the deck hard on a shorter length just outside off. The ball just kicks off the deck nad nips past the outside edge as Ollie Pope looks to block it with a straight bat.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Bangs it into the surface on a shorter length and outside off, Ollie Pope with an extended arm cuts it hard but finds the man at backward point.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, 1 run.
Harry Brook walks out to bat at number 5 for England.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, ! c Alzarri Joseph b Jayden Seales.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Oh, my! This has missed everything!
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, No run.
Halt in play. Kraigg Brathwaite is upset with the ball and asks the umpire for a change of ball. The umpire pulls out the measuring gauge and the ball doesn't get through. Which means, a new ball will be brought into the play. Right then, we are now good to resume!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Joseph steams in and hurls it on a length, on off, Ollie Pope shows the full face of the bat and times the drive straight back at the bowler. Shamar Joseph gets his right hand low in his follow through and takes the sting out of the ball as it dribbles back towards the stumps at the bowling end.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Gets it through!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, A bit fuller by Joseph, on off, Ollie Pope presents a solid front foot defence back to the bowler.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Beaten! Width on offer by Joseph on off, short in length, Ollie Pope's eyes light up as he throws his hands at the delivery but connects with thin air. A loose shot by Pope and he is lucky not to nick this one behind.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Angling in a touch, on a hard length, around off, Joe Root gets on his toes nicely to ride the bounce and punches it to the right of point for a single.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Fuller by Seales, in the corridor of off, Joe Root gives the bowler the charge to get momentum into the shot. Drives it along the ground to mid off.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Keeps it just outside off, on a short of a good length, Joe Root goes back in his crease and stabs it down the deck.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Much better by Seales as this is on a back of a length, on off, Joe Root hangs back and guides it on the bounce to gully.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
It will be Jayden Seales (5-1-34-0)Â to bowl from the other end.
Shamar Joseph to Joe Root, Goes full this time does Joseph, on the sixth stump line, Joe Root gets on the front foot and defends it right under his eyeline.
Shamar Joseph to Joe Root, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On the off pole line, on a length, Ollie Pope is unable to transfer his weight on the front foot to get the drive away and pats it to mid off.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Much fuller and slanting in, on off, Ollie Pope looks to play it with a straight bat but plays it a bit early and mistimes the shot past the bowler
We are back with action heading into the second session! The two umpires are out in the middle and the West Indies are spreading out to take the field. Ollie Pope and Joe Root stride out to resume their stay at the crease. It will be Shamar Joseph to start this session with the ball in hand. Away we go..
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Starts from over the wicket and goes wide of the crease straight away Serves it on a back of a length, outside off, Ollie Pope hangs back and extends his hands to dab it to point.
... DAY 1, SESSION 2 ...
Had Alick Athanaze held onto Pope's catch at the stroke of Lunch, it would've been a perfect comeback from West Indies after a stellar England show. Nevertheless, the West Indies bowlers will need to regroup and devise new strategies to exert pressure on this potent English batting lineup, especially with the wicket looking to be a belter to bat on. The first session saw an intriguing unfold of events, and the enticing second session will resume in about 40 minutes, at precisely 6.10 pm IST (12.
West Indies, having won the toss and opted to bowl, came out with fiery intent. Alzarri Joseph knocked out Zak Crawley in the very first over. However, the momentum swiftly shifted as Jayden Seales conceded 19 runs in the second over, igniting an onslaught that left the bowlers scrambling for answers. The Drinks break provided a brief respite, allowing Shamar Joseph and spinner Kevin Sinclair to step in and stem the flow of runs. This tighter bowling eventually resulted in a crucial wicket, with
SESSION SUMMARY - 134 Runs, 26 Overs, 2 Wickets. It has been an entertaining first session as England head into lunch as the happier side. Despite an early setback with Zak Crawley departing without adding any score to the board, Ben Duckett stepped up and altered the course of play with his exquisite timing and shot-making. His flurry of boundaries put the West Indies bowlers under pressure, causing them to miss their marks and deliver loose balls that both Duckett and Ollie Pope eagerly ca
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A bit fuller, on off and the ball stays a bit low, Joe Root stays low with the bounce and keeps it out with a straight bat. That will be LUNCH on DAY 1!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, At 135 kph, on a hard length, on off, Ollie Pope gets right behind the line of the ball and blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Tailing in a touch, on off, on a length, Ollie Pope shapes up for the drive but the ball nips back in, resulting in Pope getting it off the inner half of the bat and it goes back to the bowler.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a back of a length, a hint of away movement, on off, Ollie Pope stays back and pushes it to cover.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, This is on a hard length, over off, Joe Root gets on his toes and defends it on the off side. Last over before Lunch coming up.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, ! Short and punished! Joseph tries to go short but this is not short enough, outside off, Joe Root has to wait a bit for the ball to arrive due to the slowness of the surface before pulling it in front of square on the leg side for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Fuller and zoning in on the stumps, Ollie Pope gets his bat in front of the pads and clips it past mid-wicket for a run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a back of a length, over middle, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and tucks it to mid-wicket.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, ! Lovely shot! Seales overcooks as he serves a juicy half volley, on middle, Joe Root stays balanced in the crease and clips it through mid-wicket. Root gets his first boundary after 16 balls.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, At 135 kph, on off, on a length, Joe Root tries to put Seales off his stump-to-stump line by walking across early but Seales holds his line. Root closes the bat face early and gets a soft leading edge that dribbles past the bowler.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Touch fuller but continues to attack the stumps does Seales, Joe Root pats it back to the bowler from the crease.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Quick single taken! Fired in, on a good length, on middle, Ollie Pope tucks it to the right of mid on and scampers across for a quick run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Attacks the off pole, on a good length, Ollie Pope covers the line of the ball and defends it out with a straight bat.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Goes full but down leg, Ollie Pope gets inside the line to tickle it fine but misses.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, Too straight on the pads, on a length, Joe Root flicks it away off his pads to the left of fine leg for a couple of runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, On a back of a length, on middle, Joe Root hangs back and nudges it to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, Joseph opens Root up with this one!
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, On a nagging length, on off, the ball keeps a bit low but Joe Root adjusts to the bounce and blocks it out.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Full but sliding on the pads, Ollie Pope helps it down to fine leg for a single.
Change?
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A maiden by Seales to start his new spell! Around the off pole, on a good length, the ball holds its line a bit, Joe Root covers the line of the ball and defends it on the off side.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, In that corridor of off, on a nagging length, not close to make Root play as he lets it go.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, No run.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Beauty! Seales goes full at 137 kph with an upright seam, around off, Joe Root is caught on the crease as he looks to push it down the ground with a straight bat. The ball pitches and nips away to go past the outside edge.
Jayden Seales (2-0-28-0) comes back into the attack.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A bit closer this time, on a short of a length, left alone again by Root.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Starts from over the wicket, on a good length, shaping away a touch, outside off, Joe Root leaves the ball alone.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Back on it for the final delivery! Serves it on a good length, just outside off, Ollie Pope defends it right under his eyeliner. With 20 minutes to go for Lunch, England are 118/2.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Oh, hello! Where did that come from?
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Nicely done! Fractionally short, outside off, Ollie Pope is quick to hop back and get into the position. Drags the pull through square leg for a boundary.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Fuller in length at 139 kph, outside off, Ollie Pope leans on and drives it straight to cover. Shamar Joseph and West Indies won't mind Pope playing away from his body.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angling in at the pads, on a length, Ollie Pope nudges it off his pads but straight to mid-wicket.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Sharp stop! On a back of a length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and runs it on the bounce towards gully where Alick Athanaze flies to his right to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Sinclair changes his angle of attack as he comes from around the wicket and drifts it away, on middle, full in length, Ollie Pope clips it off the front foot to mid-wicket where the fielder misfields and concedes a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Joe Root, Short and on off, Joe Root gets on the back foot and steers it behind backward point. Root gets off the mark with a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Joe Root, Fires it full and outside off, Joe Root rocks back and blocks it to the off side.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Joe Root walks out to bat at number 4 for England.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! EDGED AND TAKEN! Shamar Joseph gets the reward for his persistence!
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Hits the deck hard, over off, the ball straightens a bit off the deck, Ben Duckett is equal to the task as he blocks it out on the leg side.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! Slightest of width and Ben Duckett is all over it!
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, This is on a short of a good length, angling in, on off, Ben Duckett does not have much room to work with and he can only stab it down the deck.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Pulls the length back slightly and keeps it in the corridor of uncertainty on off, Ben Duckett covers the line of the ball and defends it on the off side.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Joseph steams in from around the wicket for the left-hander, full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it with a straight bat towards mid off.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Keeps it full and on the off pole, Ben Duckett eases it down to long off and picks up a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, ! Risky but effective! Looped up, on a fullish length, on off, Ben Duckett gets a big stride in as he reaches out and takes it on the full. Sweeps it all along the ground and beats Jayden Seales in the deep who slid to his right but failed to cut it off. The 100-run stand comes up between these two batters!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Speared in, full and on middle, blocked out off the front foot by Ben Duckett.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Drifting in, full and on middle, Ben Duckett drives it down the deck where Sinclair dives to his right to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Fired in at 97 kph, full and on middle, Ollie Pope gets on the front foot and wrists it to deep square leg for one.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pope connects the pull shot this time! Shamar digs it in short, on off, Ollie Pope hangs back and rides the bounce nicely to pull it to deep square leg for a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Slants it in, on off, on a good length, Ollie Pope extends his hands and times the drive well but picks out the man at cover.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Missed out! On a length, straying on the pads, Ollie Pope tries to help it away off his pads but misses and wears it on the front pad.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a good length, but not close enough to make the batter play. Left alone outside off by Pope.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Oh, that whizzed under the bat!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Play and a miss! At 139 kph, zipping through, on a shortish length, outside off, Ollie Pope swivels to drag the pull in front of square on the leg side but misses as the ball goes under the bat.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Slips it in full and on middle, Ben Duckett hangs back and works it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drifting away a touch with the breeze, full and outside off, Ollie Pope gets a good stride in and glides it behind square on the off side for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Gives the ball air nicely, full and on middle, Ollie Pope lunges and blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Loops it up, full and on middle, Ollie Pope presses forward and nudges it past mid-wicket for a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, At the stumps, on a good length, Ollie Pope clips this one off the stumps towards deep backward square leg and retains the strike with a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, There's that head of Pope falling towards the off side, which has many times led to his downfall!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pope didn't hold back there, did he? Joseph errs in line as he offers width on off, on a length, Ollie Pope's eyes light up as he throws hands at the delivery to thrash it through the off side but connects with thin air.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pitches it right up does Joseph, a juicy half volley, on off, Ollie Pope cracks the drive but can't get it past cover.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Just a push and it fetches Ollie Pope a couple of runs! Shaping away, on a good length, on off, Ollie Pope lets the ball come to him and just presents a straight bat. Pats it back past the bowler for two runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Fuller and quicker, drifting in on the pads, Ben Duckett misses the flick shot. The ball comes off his pads and it is taken low at short leg. A tidy start by Kevin Sinclair, just 2 runs off it.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Darts it in from around the wicket to the left-hander, short in length, on middle and leg, Ben Duckett whips it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Floats it up, slower and fuller, on middle, knocked down to long on for a single by Pope.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, At 93 kph, on a nagging length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on the back foot and pats it to point.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, This goes straight on, short and on off, Ollie Pope rocks back and punches it towards the non-striker. Kevin Sinclair moves to his right quickly to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Tosses it up, full and on the pads, Ben Duckett clips it through square leg and gets to the other end.
First signs of spin as Kevin Sinclair is introduced into the attack.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angling in again from over the wicket, on a short of a good length, on off, Ollie Pope stabs it down on the off side. A maiden to start the second hour of the first session!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, A mix-up but no harm done!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, And again! Banged on a hard length, around off, Ollie Pope has a feel for it again as he looks to play it away from his body behind square on the off side. Gets taken aback as the ball climbs on him and zips past the bat. Encouraging signs for Shamar Joseph.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and gets a hint of away movement, on a length, in the channel on off, Ollie Pope watchfully leaves the ball alone.
Drinks break! Well, if you're a fan of 'Bazball' and missed your dose in the first Test, you'll be pretty happy with what has transpired so far. The runs have come thick and fast for England after the loss of Zak Crawley, with Ben Duckett being the aggressor of the two batters. Jayden Seales has been all over the place with his lines and lengths as has Alzarri Joseph since the first over, resulting in boundaries being leaked from both ends. Jason Holder has comparatively been better but on wha
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Bowls it outside off and on a length, Ben Duckett pushes it straight into the hands of the fielder at short cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Another fuller length-delivery on off, Ben Duckett times his cut well but finds the fielder at cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Full and outside off, Ben Duckett with soft hands drives it to mid off.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Keeps it away from the batter and lands it well outside off, on a length, Ben Duckett leaves it alone.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Takes some pace off and bowls it full, outside off, Ben Duckett looks to drive this one too but misses!
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! Comes from around the wicket and serves a fuller-length delivery with too much width outside off, Ben Duckett gets low in his stance and times his drive through covers for a boundary.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, A tad fuller in length and onto the pads, Ben Duckett clips it behind the square of the wicket on the leg side for a single to end the over. He will retain the strike for the next over!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Slants this one on a fuller length into the stumps, Ollie Pope drives it off the inner half of the bat towards mid on for just a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Cuts it through with extreme precision! On a length and on top of off, Ollie Pope waits deep in the crease and cuts it past gully for a boundary.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Attacks the stumps on a good length, Ollie Pope blocks it to mid on.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph is introduced into the attack now, replacing Alzarri Joseph.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Starts from over the wicket and hits the perfect length, just outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to backward point.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Another nice looking shot but will not fetch him any runs! Full and slanting into the stumps, Ben Duckett gets his front leg out and drives it well but finds the fielder at mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, On a length, outside off, Ben Duckett cuts it to backward point.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, hits the good length and gets the ball to come in with the angle, Ben Duckett looks to play it across the line but gets an outside edge towards covers.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Angles it in, around middle and leg and on a length, Ollie Pope tucks it to mid on for a single.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Full and on off, Ben Duckett takes a good stride out and drives it past cover for three good runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! FIFTY for Ben Duckett off just 32 deliveries! Jason Holder bowls this outside off and on a shorter length, Ben Duckett opens his bat face enough and cuts this one through the gap between gully and point for four runs. Third fastest fifty for England in Test cricket with the fastest being off 28 balls by Ian Botham.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, On a length, into the pads, Ben Duckett looks to flick it away fine but gets beaten. The ball clips his front pad and rolls in front of square leg. The batters cross for a leg bye!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Digs it on a shorter length over middle and off, Ben Duckett swivels across and looks to pull but the ball just climbs on his as it shoots off the deck and goes through to the keeper.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to the left of backward point who does well in stopping the ball and keeping it down to just a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Bangs it on a nagging length, on top of off, Ollie Pope judges the length right and leaves it alone.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in on a length and around the pads, Ollie Pope flicks it to mid-wicket.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! Even the slightest of errors in line and lengths are proving to be costly for West Indies! Too full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it beautifully past mid on for a boundary to end the over.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! A loosener from Jason Holder and Ben Duckett cashes in! Too full and outside off, Ben Duckett crisps his drive through cover for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Attacks the pads on a length, Ben Duckett gets his bat ahead and blocks it out to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, At 128kph, bowls it full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it to mid off.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Angles it across on a good length and on top of off, Ben Duckett rocks back and cuts it in front of backward point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope blocks it in front of covers. A good couple of overs from the West Indies to stem the flow of runs!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in, on a good length around middle and leg, Ollie Pope tucks it straight to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, NO BALL! Alzarri Joseph has overstepped! A length-delivery outside off, Ben Duckett just cuts it in front of covers and gets a quick single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Bowls it fuller and continues to target outside off, Ben Duckett just blocks it in front of mid off.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Hits the deck on a shorter length just outside off, Ben Duckett cuts it to backward point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Fuller this time around off, Ben Duckett pushes it to mid off.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Angles this across on a good length around that fifth stump line, Ben Duckett with an angled bat slaps it hard but finds the man at backward point.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, A good over for Jason Holder and West Indies! Just one run off it! Holder bowls it full and outside off, Ollie Pope with delicate hands blocks it to gully.Â
-
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ollie Pope pushes it to mid on this time.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, At 126 kph, lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope leaves this one alone for the keeper to collect.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Starts from over the wicket and goes full, just outside off, Ben Duckett drives it past point for a single.Â
Bowling change? Yes, Jason Holder comes into the attack as the first change.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the good length on off, Ollie Pope eases to covers.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Fractionnaly fuller this time on middle and leg, Ben Duckett pulls it to deep backward square leg for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! Another one! Short of a length angled into the batter, Ben Duckett slaps it through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Comes from around the wicket and bowls it on a length around middle and off, Ben Duckett looks to drive it but mistimes it to back to the bowler.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Four!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Digs it too short on middle and leg, Ben Duckett pulls it all along the ground to deep backward square leg for a brace.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Angles it into the left-hander on a length and into the pads, Ben Duckett tucks it to deep square leg for a single. 9 runs come of this over and England are 44/1 at the end of 4!
In case you missed it, the Pavilion end of Trent Bridge was renamed in honour of former England fast bowler and Nottingham-born Stuart Broad before the start of the play.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Guided it well! On a shorter length outside off, Ben Duckett waits back and steers it well past gully for a boundary.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Falling just short of the keeper! On a length, outside off inviting the batter to to cut. Ben Duckett with not much of foot movement looks to slash at it and gets a thin outside edge falling short of the wicketkeeper.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! The third consecutive boundary for England! Jayden Seales bangs it on a shorter length but gives width outside off, Ben Duckett rocks back and just times his cut past point for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Timed to perfection! On a good length angled into the pads, Ollie Pope brings his bottom hand into play and flicks it beautifully to the left of square leg for another boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Runs flowing thick and fast for England since that first over! This is short of a length and outside off, Ollie Pope quickly transfers his weight back and cuts it well past gully for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a length and into the pads, Ollie Pope tucks it with soft hands towards deep square leg and gets two more runs.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, That a top delivery! Lands it on a nagging length around off and gets the ball to move away a touch as Ollie Pope looks to poke at it. The ball beats the outside edge!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in on a fuller length but down leg.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, A good delivery now after 5 bad ones! Hits the deck hard around off and gets the ball to shape away a bit, Ben Duckett gets his bat high and blocks it inside the line as the ball zips through to the keeper.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Comes from around the wicket but it doesn't change the outcome for Jayden Seales as Ben Duckett sends it to the boundary on the other side! Too full and angling into the stumps, Ben Duckett flicks it beautifully past mid-wicket for a boundary.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Easy pickings! Jayden Seales drags the length short but offers a lot of width outside off. Ben Duckett rocks back in a flash and cuts it through point this time for back-to-back boundaries.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Not the ideal start from Jayden Seales as he offers a freebie to Ben Duckett who gets off the mark in some style. Too full and outside off, Duckett just leans on it and crisps his drive through covers for a boundary.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, WIDE! Comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and well outside off for a wide.Â
Who will operate from the other end?
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Top, top shot to get things underway for England and Ollie Pope! Too full this time from Alzarri Joseph, onto the stumps, Ollie Pope times his straight drive to perfection sending the ball past mid on for a nice-looking boundary. England at 4/1 after the first over!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the perfect length around that off-stump line, Ollie Pope pushes it back to the bowler.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the deck hard and gets the ball to bounce around middle, Ollie Pope covers the line and tucks it to short mid-wicket.
Ollie Pope walks in at number 3.
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, CAUGHT! What a perfect start this has been for West Indies! Zak Crawley has to walk back for a duck!
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, Bangs it into the surface on a shorter length and angling it into the right-hander on middle and leg, Zak Crawley gets his bat high and blocks it out, awkwardly!
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, No run.
All in readiness for the action to commence on the first morning of the 2nd Test. The sun is shining its full glory as the two umpires make their way out to the middle. West Indies are in a huddle near the ropes before taking their places on the field. It will be the left-hand right-hand combination of Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley to open the innings for England.
JUST IN - West Indies have been forced to make a late change to their playing XI announced yesterday. Gudakesh Motie woke up feeling unwell and he will be replaced by Kevin Sinclair. This could prove to be a blessing in disguise for the visitors as Sinclair has the batting credentials to go with his off spin, adding depth to their batting unit.
West Indies (Playing XI) - Kraigg Brathwaite (C), Mikyle Louis, Kirk Mckenzie, Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Jason Holder, Joshua Da Silva (WK), Alzarri Joseph, Kevin Sinclair (In for Gudakesh Motie), Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales.
England (Playing XI) - Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (WK), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, Shoaib Bashir.
TOSS - The coin toss lands in the favour of West Indies and they have opted to BOWL first.
And with that, we end our discussion for the time being. The one-hour sermon is completed and it is time to take a pause. No no, not from the game - but from our discussions. Because the action is about to begin. And when there is action happening out there in the middle, let that speak for itself. Hardly a cloud is seen in the sky as Ben Stokes leads his side out to the middle. Excellent crowd with the first three days being sold out, informed by Nasser Hussain on air. No Jimmy Anderson, remem
Normally, in England, pitches tend to quicken from Day 2. And the fast bowlers usually come to the party, especially on the second day. Then, the pitch slowly starts to flatten out and perhaps take some turn come Days 4 and 5. So the best batting conditions would be from today onwards and the tourists have been given another opportunity - get the best of batting conditions and make use of the willow. Yes, the opposition has got 400-plus, but thanks to their batting approach, don't you have quali
Given that we always like to take detours, let's take a turn now. We mentioned about a legend so shall talk a bit about his department. Bowling. More prominently, spin. Whether it was Shamar Joseph's discomfort or whether it was the fact that the second new ball was around the corner and the quicks needed to be rested - Kraigg Brathwaite turned to spin seriously around the 70-over mark and by the end of the day, 4 wickets had gone to the tweakers - 2 apiece to Kevin Sinclair and Kavem Hodge. S
We now cast a look at the rest of the batters and barring Stokes and Crawley, everyone else got in and got out. It is understood that is, in essence, what Bazball implies - keep attacking. But the last time when I checked the rule book, nowhere was it mentioned that a batting side should bat for only one day in a Test. So why the hurry? If batters are going to come in, get set and then throw it away, how good will it do for a viewer? Wasn't this same thing exposed first by Australia and then, br
For people following English cricket, this would not be the first time Ollie Pope has been compared to an Ian Bell or Joe Root. That's primarily because of the way he bats, with technique extremely solid and footwork totally assured. On paper. In reality, he has been just a prolonged advert of what big is to come. But for how long will the advert last and people wait for the actual movie? In 79 innings in Tests, Pope has crossed the 50-mark 18 times - that's roughly one every 4-5 innings. But
It was another of many, not only for West Indies, but for England as well. We mentioned about Ollie Pope and for a reason. Not just because of his 121, but because the first 50-odd runs never gave any assurance of him being set at the crease. He was dropped twice, on either side of the Lunch break and he was more than happy to make the Windies pay. That's one of many for West Indies - try and look competitive numerous times in Tests, only to kick opportunities with both feet and letting the oppo
No disrespect at all to any English fan. The cricket played by their team has been supreme with their superior skills clearly visible on display. But as any neutral cricket fan would wish, a CONTEST is what is anticipated when a fixture is announced. Test cricket is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport as it tests the players' resolve, again and again. And when that happens and players pass that test, it brings a joy to watch for a viewer. But when there is barely a test for someone and th
Sadly, the second Test has also begun on the same note. Not because England have raked 400-plus in a day. But because we are not sure whether there was any plan in place by the West Indies in their bowling. And if there was any, it was clearly not followed. The first new ball was wasted, being sprayed on both sides of the wicket, with the lengths not being consistent and England capitalized. In fact, the visitors would have totally forgotten that they had Zak Crawley caught in the slip cordon o
For all those who could not catch the action on Day 1 of the second Test, it was purely action packed, with 416 runs scored at around 4.7 an over, with 10 wickets falling. And to add, 90 overs were not even bowled. West Indies chose to bowl on what teams normally do in English conditions, with the pitch predicted to get better on subsequent days. But then, England chose to attack and not only did they attack the ball, they attacked the mindset and soul of the visitors. One look at the scorecard
Watch out! The next season of your favourite web series is set to release on so and so date. I am sure, in this digital age of OTT platforms, many of us would have already got hooked onto the habit of watching web series and what not on the digital platform. Seems like Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes have taken an inspiration from the same. After Bazball was heavily criticized in India, that method seemingly took a break in the first Test at Lord's. But come the second Test, it is back. And back
... DAY 2 ...
England will aim to come out all guns blazing early on Day 2, looking to press their dominance with the ball. West Indies will need to survive that crucial first hour, where the ball is likely to do most of the talking, and then focus on stitching together small partnerships to give themselves a chance for a strong comeback in this Test.
Right then, that's a wrap for Day 1, with England firmly in the driver's seat thanks to some extraordinary batting performances. West Indies will be hoping for a stronger start on Day 2 as they look to mount a comeback. Join us for all the action on Day 2, starting at 3.30 pm IST (10 am GMT). Until then, cheers and goodbye!
In the final session, West Indies tightened their approach, securing the prized wicket of Ollie Pope. However, they struggled to capitalize on the breakthrough, allowing Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith to form another 50+ partnership. Stokes eventually fell for a well-compiled 69. The spinners then regained some control, with Kavem Hodge claiming two wickets to expose the tail. Despite some resistance from Mark Wood and Chris Woakes, West Indies wrapped things up efficiently, claiming all remainin
In the second session, West Indies began with tight bowling that resulted in the dismissal of Joe Root. However, they struggled to maintain momentum as their bowlers faltered, compounded by a couple of missed opportunities in the field. After a promising start, Harry Brook fell quickly, but Ollie Pope capitalized on being dropped twice to notch up a century, ultimately closing the session in England's favour.
This has been a fantastic end to the day's play as England firmly grasp control of the second Test match ending their first innings with 416 runs on the board at the end of Day 1. West Indies after a tough day did well in this final session to pull things back and wrap this English side up. In the final session, 35.3 overs saw 157 runs scored, but more importantly for West Indies, they managed to claim 6 crucial wickets.
England seized control of the game in the very first session despite an early setback in the opening over. Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope capitalized on loose deliveries from the West Indies bowlers, laying a solid foundation before Duckett's dismissal. Joe Root then partnered with Ollie Pope to guide the team safely to Lunch with 134 runs on the board. West Indies managed to tighten their bowling towards the end of the session, gaining some momentum heading into the break.
Alzarri Joseph to Shoaib Bashir, ! CAUGHT! The outside edge goes to hand this time! Alzarri Joseph wraps up the England innings! Alzarri Joseph hurls it in, on a nagging length, on off, Shoaib Bashir stays on the back foot and hops to get on top of the bounce. Looks to defend it out with a straight bat but gets an outside edge again. It goes low but straight into the hands of second slip where Jason Holder is expecting the edge and he stays low to grab it low in front.
Alzarri Joseph to Shoaib Bashir, ! Edged away! Alzarri Joseph delivers it on a hard length, tighter line, on off and middle, Shoaib Bashir gets on his toes and shows the full face of the bat to cover the line of the ball. Gets an outside edge that flies towards gully and it beats Alick Athanaze to his right for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, NO BALL! Joseph serves it full this time, around off, Mark Wood backs away to access the off side and has to reach out to drive it to deep point for a single. Alzarri Joseph has overstepped!
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, Joseph bends his back and digs it in short, outside off, Mark Wood is happy to let that one go behind to the keeper.
Alzarri Joseph will bowl the final over of the day.Â
Jayden Seales to Mark Wood, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Mark Wood, Big swing and a miss! Short of a length and zoning in, around middle and leg, Mark Wood clears his front leg and leaves nothing in the tank as he swings to go back over the bowler's head but misses and gets beaten on the inside edge.
Jayden Seales to Shoaib Bashir, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Shoaib Bashir, No run.
Shoaib Bashir will be the last man to walk in for England.
Jayden Seales to Chris Woakes, ! EDGED AND GONE! Jayden Seales gets his line and length right this time and he gets the reward!
Jayden Seales to Chris Woakes, ! Neatly done! Jayden Seales sprays it on the pads and it is full in length, Chris Woakes stays balanced in the crease and with a still head, clips it through mid-wicket for a boundary.
Jayden Seales (14-1-84-1)Â to share the new ball from the other end.
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, Joseph goes slightly wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and spears it in, full and at the pads, Mark Wood clips it nicely but straight to mid on.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, Joseph goes slightly fuller this time, on off, Chris Woakes stays rooted in the crease and dabs it past backward point for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, At 142 kph, on a good length by Joseph, on off, Chris Woakes gets his bat out in front of his body to keep it out the ball climbs onto him off the deck and hits him high on the bat.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, Honing in at the stumps, on a length, Chris Woakes covers the line of the ball and defends it out on the off side.
Right then, West Indies have finally opted to take the new ball. It will be Alzarri Joseph to have the first bite at this second new ball.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, ! Too straight and these are easy pickings!
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Hodge attacks the stumps with a full delivery, Chris Woakes knocks it down to long on for one as England move to 397.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Fuller in length, on off, Mark Wood eases it to long off and gets to the other end.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Hodge serves it flat and short, over middle, Mark Wood punches it back to Hodge.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, There's that tempter by Hodge, looped up, full and wide on off, Mark Wood is happy to let that one go.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Too straight, full and on the pads by Hodge, Chris Woakes tickles it fine towards the fine leg fence for a couple of runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Fuller this time by Sinclair, on off and middle, Mark Wood drives it straight back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Keeps it flat and short, on middle and leg, Mark Wood goes back in his crease and defends it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Sinclair bowls it short, on middle, Chris Woakes rocks back and nurdles it past square leg for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, ! Good use of the feet! Sinclair floats it up, full and on off, Chris Woakes shimmies down the track and times the drive to the right of Jason Holder at mid off for a boundary.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Drops it short now, on off, Chris Woakes gets on the back foot and slaps it past point for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Pushes it through this time, on off, Mark Wood knocks it down to long off for a single with a straight bat.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Nicely bowled! Slows it up and keeps it away from the batter's reach, outside off, fuller as well, Mark Wood reaches out but fails to connect.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, 2 runs.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, This is flat and short, at the stumps, Chris Woakes gets on one knee and paddles it over the keeper for a couple of runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tosses it up, full and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to deep cover for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Fuller in length and on off, Chris Woakes pushes it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tossed up, on off, Chris Woakes gets a good stride out before blocking it right under his eyes.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Bowls it full and on the off stump line, Mark Wood drives it to cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, 3 runs.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Tosses this one up outside off, Mark Wood cuts it to backward point.Â
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Bowls it full and on off, Mark Wood drives it down to mid off.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Has that been grassed?
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
The new ball is now due for West Indies! Will they go for it right away?
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Short and on off, Mark Wood punches it down to long off for one.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Floats it up, full and on off, Mark Wood drills it hard but straight to cover.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Floated up, full and at the stumps, Chris Woakes blocks it out down the deck.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, 1 run.
Mark Wood walks out to bat at number 10 for England.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, ! c Kavem Hodge b Kevin Sinclair.
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, Loops this one up on a fuller length and on off, Gus Atkinson blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Fuller and on middle and leg, Chris Woakes flicks it to square leg for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Gus Atkinson, No run.
Is that out? There has been an umpire's review for Run-out at the bowler's end.Â
Kavem Hodge to Gus Atkinson, Fires this one short and drifting into middle and leg, Gus Atkinson rocks back and trickles it down to fine leg for a couple to get off the mark.Â
Gus Atkinson walks out to bat at number 9 for England.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! c Jason Holder b Kavem Hodge.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! Clean strike!
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Full and sliding on, middle, Jamie Smith defends it out on the leg side.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Drops it short and on off, Chris Woakes punches it down to long off for one.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Beaten!
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Full and on middle, Jamie Smith lunges and knocks it to the right of the bowler but can't get it past the man at short mid on.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Short and on middle, punched off the back toot to long on for one by Woakes.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tossed up around off, Chris Woakes taps it to the fielder at cover.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Goes full and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to deep cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Darts this one full and into the stumps, Chris Woakes gets his bat down and jams it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Fuller and quicker, on off, Chris Woakes works it to cover again.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Coming in with the angle, full and on off, Chris Woakes pushes it to cover.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Lands it full again, on off and middle, Chris Woakes gets on the front foot to defend.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Attacks the stumps, on a nagging length, Jamie Smith gets right behind the line of the ball and pushes it to mid on.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, ! Creamed away!
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Fuller and wide on off, Jamie Smith reaches out and slices it past backward point for a couple of runs.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, That could have so nearly trickled back onto the stumps! Full and slanting in from over the wicket, on middle and leg, Jamie Smith walks right across his stumps and lifts his back leg to play the flick shot but misses.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Angling in, on a nagging length, around off, Chris Woakes plays it right under his eyeline as he steers it past gully for a single. The 350 comes up for England!
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Darted in, short and at the stumps, Jamie Smith stays back and blocks it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Pulls the length back and spears it in, outside off, Chris Woakes hangs back and dabs it square of the wicket on the off side for one.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Slows it up and gets a bit of away turn, full and just outside off, Jamie Smith plays it with the turn to deep cover for a run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Fired in, fuller and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to the right of the diving cover fielder for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, A bit fuller and at the stumps, Chris Woakes lunges and pats it back to the bowler.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Speared in, on a nagging length, on middle, Chris Woakes defends it off the front foot.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, In the channel on off, on a good length, Jamie Smith does not quite get behind the line of the ball and extends his hands to steer it along the ground towards gully.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Holder goes slightly wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and delivers it on a back of a length, over the off pole, Jamie Smith gets on his toes and keeps it out on the off side.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Hurls it on a back of a length, on middle, Chris Woakes hops back and nudges it to deep mid-wicket and gets to the other end.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Beaten! This comes in with the angle, on a good length, just outside off, Chris Woakes gets on the front foot to defend it out but plays inside the line of the ball and gets beaten on the outside edge.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Hooping back in from a wide angle, full and on off, Chris Woakes gets his bat out in front of the pads and plays it back to the bowler.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Short and wide on off, at 128 kph, Jamie Smith hangs back and frees his arms to cut it through point for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Drops it short again, on off, Jamie Smith stands tall and punches it to deep cover to keep the strike with a single. End of a successful over for Kavem Hodge and West Indies.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Drags the length back and attacks the stumps, Jamie Smith gets on the back foot and keeps it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Floated up, full and on off, Chris Woakes presses forward and drives it past cover for a single to get off the mark.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Angling in from around the wicket, full and on middle, Chris Woakes blocks it out off the front foot.
Chris Woakes walks out to bat at number 8 for England.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, ! STRAIGHT TO THE FIELDER! Maiden Test wicket for Kavem Hodge and it is the big one of Ben Stokes! The English skipper could not have picked the fielder out there in the deep any better.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Drifts it in, full from around the wicket, on middle, Ben Stokes clips it straight to mid-wicket.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Length delivery, coming back in, outside off, Jamie Smith shuffles across and comes down the track to push it back to the bowler.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, A bit fuller at 128 kph, outside off, Jamie Smith makes a late decision to glide it along the ground to gully.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Goes wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle, on a length, tailing in, on off, Jamie Smith covers the line of the ball and stabs it down the deck.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Angling in from over the wicket, on a back of a length, on off, Jamie Smith hops back and blocks it out with a straight bat as the ball pops up a bit off the deck.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and hits the deck hard, over off, Ben Stokes waits on the back foot and dabs it to deep point for a single.
Drinks break! England have managed to add 82 runs in the first hour after Tea, taking their total to 341. Both Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith have largely been untroubled and are ticking along nicely. West Indies are yet to show any real signs of aggression, despite taking wickets intermittently. This lack of sustained pressure is an issue they need to address promptly heading into this final hour of play on Day 1.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! Sheer power behind that!
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Darts another one full and onto the stumps, Ben Stokes cuts it to deep cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Shorter in length and on off, Ben Stokes makes room and cuts it to deep cover for a couple more.Â
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, On a length, into the stumps, Jamie Smith tucks it along the ground to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, On a length, just outside off, Ben Stokes cuts it to the right of deep point for a couple of runs. Also brings up the 50-run stand between these two.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, ! Nice shot! Holder digs it short outside off, Ben Stokes swivels and pulls it firmly through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Goes full and hurls it outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to covers.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and lands it on a good length, on off, Ben Stokes blocks it to covers.Â
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Quicker this time and flighted on a fuller length, on off, Jamie Smith defends it on the front foot.Â
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Switches to around the wicket and drags the length short and lands it around middle and leg, Jamie Smith tucks it away to deep square leg for a single.Â
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Starts from over the wicket and tosses it full on the stumps, Ben Stokes nudges it to long on for a single.
Change.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Bowls it straight and attacks the stumps, on a hard length, Jamie Smith is hurried a bit but does well to keep it out.Â
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, On a back of a length, over off, Jamie Smith dabs it down the deck.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Full and into the pads, Ben Stokes clips it to square leg.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, On a length, just outside off, Ben Stokes charges down the track and looks to go big over mid off but slices it to deep covers for a couple of runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Bowls this quicker and fuller into the pads, Ben Stokes is quick on getting back deep in the crease as he clips it down to fine leg for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on the stumps, Ben Stokes taps it to mid on.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Tosses this one up, outside off, Jamie Smith drives it straight to covers.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, With a flatter trajectory, bowls this one full and on off, Jamie Smith rocks back and punches it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Bowls a low full toss outside off, Jamie Smith drives it straight to the man at covers.Â
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Fuller and outside off, Jamie Smith drives it well to deep point for a single.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Top running! Jason Holder bowls it with the angle coming in around middle and leg, Ben Stokes looks to block but gets an inside edge through his legs. Jamie Smith calls for the run as the folder from square leg charges in and throws a direct hit at the striker's end. Smith was well within the crease!
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, A tad shorter in length and outside off, Ben Stokes looks to cut it late but gets beaten on the outside edge with the extra bounce and pace behind it.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and lands it on a good length, just outside off, Ben Stokes defends it to cover.
-
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Shorter and outside off, Ben Stokes hangs back and cuts it to deep point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, NO BALL! Kevin Sinclair oversteps this time. Bowls it full and on off, Ben Stokes drives it straight back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and slanting into middle and off, Ben Stokes blocks it right under his eyes.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller, on off, Ben Stokes makes room and pushes it to cover.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drags the length down over off, Ben Stokes cuts it to backward point who does well diving to his right to keep it down to just a dot!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller on the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it out on the backfoot.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, On a back of a length, on off, Jamie Smith punches it with a straight bat back tot he bowler who does well to get his right arm down on his follow-through to make a stop.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Lands it on a shorter length, outside off, Jamie Smith punches it to cover.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Goes full and outside off, Jamie Smith drives it with full control in the gap between cover and point. The fielder charges the ball towards the fence and flicks it back in time. The batters get three good runs off it.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Comes from over the wicket and bangs the deck on a length, over the stumps, Jamie Smith opens up his stance and blocks it down the pitch.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drifiting in, full and at the stumps, Ben Stokes presses forward and works it straight to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Turning in a touch, fuller and on the pads, clipped straight to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Keeps it on a nagging length, on middle, Jamie Smith goes on the back foot and pats it back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Darts it in, flat and short, outside off, Ben Stokes rocks back and punches it in front of square on the off side for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Very full, on off, Ben Stokes firms the drive straight to a straightish short cover.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Four!
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Attacks the stumps on a good length, Jamie Smith gets his bat ahead and stabs it down the deck.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a length, outside off, Ben Stokes slashes it to deep backward point for a single.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Short and outside off, Ben Stokes slaps it to deep cover for a couple of runs.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Four!
Jayden Seales (12-1-69-1) is back for a burst.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Continues to keep it full and lands it around off, Jamie Smith drives it to mid off.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Full and outside off, Jamie Smith looks to slice it away but gets a thick outside edge to short third who makes a mess out of it allowing the batters two runs.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Angles this into the pads on a hard length, Jamie Smith hops back and tucks it to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a short of a length over middle, Ben Stokes pulls it to deep square leg for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Comes from over the wicket and hits the deck hard on a tight length into the bodyline, Ben Stokes gets cramped for room as he looks to flick it across the line and wears it on the pads.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Takes pace off and bowls it nice and full, on off, Jamie Smith blocks it back onto the deck.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Skids this one through on a fuller length and into the pads, Ben Stokes tucks it to mid-wicket for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Four!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on off, Ben Stokes gets a good stride out and pushes it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller on off, Ben Stokes blocks it on the front foot.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Full and on off, Ben Stokes drops his bat with delicate hands and cuts it to deep backward point for a single to end the over.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, WIDE! Digs it short and down leg! Ben Stokes ducks just enough to leave this one alone.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Beautiful shot! On a back of a length over middle, Ben Stokes is quick on getting on the backfoot and pulls it through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a good length, over off, Ben Stokes punches it to covers.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Follows up with a hard-length delivery, on off, Jamie Smith pushes it to covers.Â
Jamie Smith makes his way out to the centre.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! EDGED AND GONE! Alzarri Joseph gets the big, big wicket of Ollie Pope!Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Quicker this time, on a fuller length and on off, Ben Stokes drives it to short cover, yet gain.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Loops it full and into middle and off, Ben Stokes blocks it on the front foot.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Floated up, outside off, Ben Stokes frees his arms and drives it to deep cover for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a length, outside off, Ben Stokes opens the bat face and drives it to deep point for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a back of a length, around off, Ben Stokes slices it to point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Four!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No ball!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, At 139 kph, hurls it on a nagging length, angled across on middle and off, Ben Stokes hops back and dabs it out to the off side.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Slower through the air and on a fuller length around middle and leg, Ollie Pope clips it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and attacking the stumps, Ollie Pope digs it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drags the length short around off, Ollie Pope rocks back and cuts it to backward point.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Four!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to cover who throws a dive to his left only to get a hand to it as the batters scamper across for a single.
It will be spin in the form of Kevin Sinclair from the other end.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and on off, Ollie Pope drives it to long on for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes looks to cut it square on off but misses.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Two in the over for Ben Stokes! Alzarri Joseph digs it short and over middle, Ben Stokes swivels in the crease and pulls it all along the ground to deep backward square leg fence for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Angles this across on a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes holds his bat high and makes the leave.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Change of ends hasn't quite worked well as Alzarri Joseph bowls another freebie! Too full and outside off, asking to be hit. Ben Stokes leans on and drives it well past point for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
We are back.
⦠DAY 1, SESSION THREE ...
Having mentioned all of the above, West Indies need to believe that they can cause England to make mistakes. There have been a few flashy shots, a few streaky shots and the hosts have ridden their luck. There is experience in Pope and Stokes while Smith is in form, but that middle order still looks shaky. As Sir Geoffrey Boycott used to say - always look at the score with two wickets added to it and the game changes quickly.
You reap as you sow. We all know this proverb. West Indies are making a lifetime out of this. In almost every Test that they play, they give glimpses of their talent, only to put that into the bin by some carelessness. Even in this Test, in spite of the bowling being ordinary, the chances were created, only to be shelled. And add to that, Shamar Joseph's niggle doesn't help things. It seems like a long session is on the cards for the bowlers.
Ben Stokes has gotten off to a good start and this 5th-wicket stand has also crossed 50, making it 3 50+stands for the last 4 wickets. The hosts still have Jamie Smith to come, who had a phenomenal debut Test. What has been interesting is - in stark contrast to the previous Test, Bazball is clearly on display here, wherein Ben Stokes is keen to keep the scoring rate high at all times.
Another solid session for England where runs came at a good clip. From the 27 overs bowled in the session, 125 runs were scored at 4.63 runs per over. As play began after Lunch, England were dealt an early blow in the form of Joe Root. Coming in at the departure of Joe Root, Harry Brook made his intentions clear straight away and put the Windies bowlers to the sword. However, he failed to kick on and departed for 36. Dropped on either side of the Lunch break, Ollie Pope carried on his merry w
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ben Stokes, Full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to long off for a single. And that will be TEA on Day 1 with the scoreboard reading 259/4.
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ben Stokes, Bowls it full with the round-arm action, coming into the left-hander around middle and leg, Ben Stokes eases it to mid-wicket.
Shamar Joseph seems to be experiencing discomfort in his left hamstring and he is stretching himself out. The physio is out to have a look and Joseph is walking off the field. It will be Kraigg Brathwaite to complete the over. Due to this delay, it will now certainly be the final over before Tea.
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ollie Pope, Comes from around the wicket and slides this one full and outside off, Ollie Pope waits back and cuts to to third man for a single.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Stokes, Edged and falls short! Comes from around the wicket and bangs it on a nagging length, just outside off, Ben Stokes looks for the drive but gets an outside edge falling short of the third slip.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and hurls it on a back of a length, angling into middle, Ollie Pope clips it past mid-wicket for a single.Â
Shamar Joseph is back for what could be the penultimate over before Tea.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Slants this full and into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Shorter length and width on offer, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to deep backward point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Quicker and fuller into off, Ollie Pope blocks it back to the bowelr.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Loops this on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes slaps it to deep cover for a single.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a shorter length and into middle and off, Ben Stokes dabs it in front of mid-wicket and squeezes a single to bring up the fifty-run partnership between these two.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Gets the bouncer right this time does Jayden Seales! Bends his back and hits the deck hard over off, Ben Stokes sways away from the line.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Looks for the bouncer and hits the deck hard down leg. Ben Stokes looks to pull it away but the ball keeps low off the pitch.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes leaves it alone.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Top effort in the deep to keep it down to just two!
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on middle and leg, Ollie Pope tucks it to mid-wicket.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, A tad fuller and on off, Ollie Pope gets on the front foot but cuts it late to deep backward point for a couple of runs.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on off, Ollie Pope gets his front leg ahead and blocks it right under his eyes.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Bowls it full, on off, Ben Stokes pushes it to mid off.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, A few good-looking shots that haven't fetched him a single run! This is full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it straight to cover.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Width on offer outside off, on a fuller length, Ben Stokes leans ahead and crisps it to the fielder at backward point.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes watchfully leaves it alone.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes drives it off the center of the bat but finds the man at covers.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, A slight fumble from the bowler allows the single. Too full and on off, Ben Stokes drives it to the right of the bowler who gets to the ball quickly but doesn't bend down enough to make the stop.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Slants this full and into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drags the length short and wider than off, Ollie Pope rocks back quickly nad cuts it to deep point for one.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Quicker and fuller into the stumps, Ollie Pope gets a good stride out and blocks it.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, A sharp bouncer around middle and off, Ben Stokes sways away as this one zips past him.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Full and attacking the off stump line, Ollie Pope gets his bat ahead and pushes it past the bowler and to the left of mid on for a single.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Goes a tad fuller around off, Ollie Pope with soft hands blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Hits the hard length, around off, Ollie Pope blocks it back onto the deck.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, LEG BYES! Jayden Seales bangs it into the deck on a length and on leg, Ollie Pope looks to tuck it away fine but doesn't connect. The ball brushes his thigh pad and races away to the fine leg fence for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Moves to 99 with that single! Too full, on off, Ollie Pope whips it down to long on for one.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, ! Errs in line for once and pays the price! Bowls it down leg, on a fuller length, Ollie Pope gets low on a knee and sweeps it fine past the keeper for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on off, Ollie Pope drives it to sweeper cover for a brace.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, A no-look reverse sweep that! Tossed up around off, Ollie Pope reverse sweeps it to deep point for a couple of runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a length, outside off. The ball kicks off the surface and Ben Stokes leaves it alone. A good end to the over from Jason Holder!
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Fuller and on off, Ben Stokes drives it on the full but straight to mid off.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Angles this one across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes leaves it alone.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Too full this time into middle and leg, Ollie Pope clips it past mid-wicket. Alzarri Joseph from mid on chases the ball and does well to push it back into play. The batters get three runs off it.Â
A change of bat for Ben Stokes. The selection has been done and we are all good to go.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, ! Gets it through the gap beautifully! Jason Holder serves this juicy half-volley outside off, Ollie Pope leans ahead and creams it through covers for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Fires this one quicker and into the stumps, Ben Stokes pats it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drags the length a tad shorter and on off, Ben Stokes pushes it to cover.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Tosses this one full and slanting into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it to the off side.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ben Stokes gets his front leg out and taps it back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Too full and just outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to cover.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Bowls it slower and fuller, outside off, Ollie Pope reaches out and slashes it over backward point for a single to end the over.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, On a length just outside off, Ollie Pope leans on it and drives it straight to the man at cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Full and angles into the pads, Ollie Pope clips it to mid-wicket.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Goes full again but attacks the stumps, Ollie Pope drives it to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, ! Errs in line and Ollie Pope makes full use of it! Too full and into the pads, Ollie Pope flicks it well through the square leg region for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Steams from over the wicket and bangs the deck on a good length, outside off, Ollie Pope watches the line and shoulders arms.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Bowls it full and outside off, Ollie Pope looks for the cut but misses out.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on the pads, Ben Stokes clips it square of the wicket on the leg side for a single to get off the mark.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
The captain of England, Ben Stokes walks in now.
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, ! c Kirk Mckenzie b Kevin Sinclair.
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, Goes full and attacks the stumps, Harry Brook blocks it right under his eyes.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, End of a good over from Jason Holder! Bangs it on a fuller length, outside off with some away movement off the deck, Ollie Pope holds his bat up and leaves this one alone.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Takes some pace off and bowls it full, outside off, Ollie Pope drives it well but straight to cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Continues to keep it tight around the fourth stump line, on a nagging length, Ollie Pope watchfully blocks it out.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Goes fuller and outside off, Ollie Pope drives it straight to mid off.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, On a length, outside off, Harry Brook cuts it hard to the left of deep point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, Bowls this quicker and fuller just outside off. The ball skids through and stays a bit low. Harry Brook adjusts well on the backfoot and cuts it to deep point for a single. Brings up the 200 runs for England!
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Tosses it up around middle and off, Ollie Pope pushes it to long on and gets a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Bowls this one full and onto middle and leg, Ollie Pope punches it to mid-wicket.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Flatter and fuller, into the pads, Ollie Pope clips it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Flights this one fuller and on off, Ollie Pope takes a big stride out and blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Drinks! England maintain a firm grip in the first half of this session, taking full advantage of West Indies' erratic bowling. Despite losing Joe Root, the team has capitalized on loose deliveries and made the most of it asserting their dominance in this session. West Indies will be desperate to regroup and tighten their bowling, as opportunities for wickets have slipped through their fingers with a couple of crucial dropped catches. The stage is perfectly set for an exciting conclusion to th
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, No run.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Another misfield!
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Fuller in length, on off, Harry Brook drives it well but straight to cover.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Gets the ball to tail back in from wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle, on the sixth stump line, on a hard length, Harry Brook reads it well, covers his off pole and lets it go.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, A fumble and they get back for the second run!
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Begins his new spell from over the wicket and goes full, outside off, Harry Brook watchfully leaves the ball alone.
Jason Holder (4-0-21-0) comes back into the attack.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, In and around the sixth stump line, on a good length, Ollie Pope covers the line of the ball and pats it back to the bowler. A maiden by Joseph!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes full at 130 kph, outside off, a tempter for Ollie Pope who does not fall for the trap and shoulders arms.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, This straightens up a bit off the deck, on a short of a good length, on off, Ollie Pope waits on the back foot and stabs it down on the off side.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, At 134 kph, outside off, on a length, Ollie Pope is happy to let that one go.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Touch fuller by Joseph and it moves away a bit, outside off, Ollie Pope lunges and drives it straight to mid off.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a short of a good length, around off, Ollie Pope punches it to cover.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Into the wicket by Joseph but the line is around leg, Harry Brook ducks and lets it go.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Fuller in length, on off, driven back towards the bowler by Brook. Holder makes a half stop in his follow through and parries it to mid off.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Cracking shot! Alzarri Joseph bends his back and digs it in short. This is not a bad delivery by any means. In the channel on off, on a shortish length, Harry Brook does not have much room to work with but he arches back and creates the room. Gets on top of the bounce nicely and slaps it over the deep backward point fence for a six.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Digs this short and hits the deck hard outside off, Harry Brook looks to slash it over point but makes no connection.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Gets enough on it! Shamar Joseph errs in line and sprays this fuller-length delivery into middle and leg, Ollie Pope glances it fine for a boundary to end the over.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes full and lands it around middle and off, Ollie Pope with delicate hands pushes it to mid off.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Gets the line a touch closer to the off stump and on a length, Ollie Pope rocks back and cuts it well but still fails to find the gap.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a length, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it hard but straight to backward point.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Continues to bowl it straight but angles this one inform wider of the crease, Ollie Pope clips this to mid-wicket again.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ollie Pope flicks it straight to the man at mid-wicket.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Was that a chance? Did that carry? Yes, it certainly did. Alick Athanaze puts it down again!
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Tighter line as this one zips through, on a back of a length, on off, Harry Brook watchfully leaves it alone.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, ! On another day, that would have crashed onto the stumps! Ollie Pope is living a charmed life here.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, A bit fuller this time, on off, Ollie Pope lunges and times the drive to mid off.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Good shot but equally well fielded!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Make that a hat-trick of fours! A nothing delivery by Joseph as this is short but no real pace or bounce on it to trouble the batter. Harry Brook gets his weight on the back foot and glides it between gully and backward point for four more runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Class written all over this one!
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Shot! Hit with real authority! Joseph errs in line as he serves it wide outside off, on a length, Harry Brook frees his arms and cracks the drive through covers for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Oh, what happened there?
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the hard length, over middle, Ollie Pope swivels and gets on top of the bounce to pull it to deep backward square leg for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, On a back of a length, on off, Harry Brook hangs back and dabs it towards point.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, Wide!
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, At the stumps, on a good length, Harry Brook gets behind the line of the ball and blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, Four!
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, ! Nowhere in control and Brook gets lucky!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Poor delivery and duly punished!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a back of a length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and punches it past backward point for a couple of runs.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Jason Holder drops this one at the second slip!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands this on a good length just around off, Ollie Pope dabs it back onto the deck.Â
Shamar Joseph to Harry Brook, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, A beauty to end the over! Hits the deck hard on a shorter length just outside off. The ball just kicks off the deck nad nips past the outside edge as Ollie Pope looks to block it with a straight bat.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Bangs it into the surface on a shorter length and outside off, Ollie Pope with an extended arm cuts it hard but finds the man at backward point.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, 1 run.
Harry Brook walks out to bat at number 5 for England.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, ! c Alzarri Joseph b Jayden Seales.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Oh, my! This has missed everything!
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, No run.
Halt in play. Kraigg Brathwaite is upset with the ball and asks the umpire for a change of ball. The umpire pulls out the measuring gauge and the ball doesn't get through. Which means, a new ball will be brought into the play. Right then, we are now good to resume!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Joseph steams in and hurls it on a length, on off, Ollie Pope shows the full face of the bat and times the drive straight back at the bowler. Shamar Joseph gets his right hand low in his follow through and takes the sting out of the ball as it dribbles back towards the stumps at the bowling end.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Gets it through!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, A bit fuller by Joseph, on off, Ollie Pope presents a solid front foot defence back to the bowler.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Beaten! Width on offer by Joseph on off, short in length, Ollie Pope's eyes light up as he throws his hands at the delivery but connects with thin air. A loose shot by Pope and he is lucky not to nick this one behind.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Angling in a touch, on a hard length, around off, Joe Root gets on his toes nicely to ride the bounce and punches it to the right of point for a single.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Fuller by Seales, in the corridor of off, Joe Root gives the bowler the charge to get momentum into the shot. Drives it along the ground to mid off.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Keeps it just outside off, on a short of a good length, Joe Root goes back in his crease and stabs it down the deck.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Much better by Seales as this is on a back of a length, on off, Joe Root hangs back and guides it on the bounce to gully.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
It will be Jayden Seales (5-1-34-0)Â to bowl from the other end.
Shamar Joseph to Joe Root, Goes full this time does Joseph, on the sixth stump line, Joe Root gets on the front foot and defends it right under his eyeline.
Shamar Joseph to Joe Root, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On the off pole line, on a length, Ollie Pope is unable to transfer his weight on the front foot to get the drive away and pats it to mid off.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Much fuller and slanting in, on off, Ollie Pope looks to play it with a straight bat but plays it a bit early and mistimes the shot past the bowler
We are back with action heading into the second session! The two umpires are out in the middle and the West Indies are spreading out to take the field. Ollie Pope and Joe Root stride out to resume their stay at the crease. It will be Shamar Joseph to start this session with the ball in hand. Away we go..
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Starts from over the wicket and goes wide of the crease straight away Serves it on a back of a length, outside off, Ollie Pope hangs back and extends his hands to dab it to point.
... DAY 1, SESSION 2 ...
Had Alick Athanaze held onto Pope's catch at the stroke of Lunch, it would've been a perfect comeback from West Indies after a stellar England show. Nevertheless, the West Indies bowlers will need to regroup and devise new strategies to exert pressure on this potent English batting lineup, especially with the wicket looking to be a belter to bat on. The first session saw an intriguing unfold of events, and the enticing second session will resume in about 40 minutes, at precisely 6.10 pm IST (12.
West Indies, having won the toss and opted to bowl, came out with fiery intent. Alzarri Joseph knocked out Zak Crawley in the very first over. However, the momentum swiftly shifted as Jayden Seales conceded 19 runs in the second over, igniting an onslaught that left the bowlers scrambling for answers. The Drinks break provided a brief respite, allowing Shamar Joseph and spinner Kevin Sinclair to step in and stem the flow of runs. This tighter bowling eventually resulted in a crucial wicket, with
SESSION SUMMARY - 134 Runs, 26 Overs, 2 Wickets. It has been an entertaining first session as England head into lunch as the happier side. Despite an early setback with Zak Crawley departing without adding any score to the board, Ben Duckett stepped up and altered the course of play with his exquisite timing and shot-making. His flurry of boundaries put the West Indies bowlers under pressure, causing them to miss their marks and deliver loose balls that both Duckett and Ollie Pope eagerly ca
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A bit fuller, on off and the ball stays a bit low, Joe Root stays low with the bounce and keeps it out with a straight bat. That will be LUNCH on DAY 1!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, At 135 kph, on a hard length, on off, Ollie Pope gets right behind the line of the ball and blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Tailing in a touch, on off, on a length, Ollie Pope shapes up for the drive but the ball nips back in, resulting in Pope getting it off the inner half of the bat and it goes back to the bowler.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a back of a length, a hint of away movement, on off, Ollie Pope stays back and pushes it to cover.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, This is on a hard length, over off, Joe Root gets on his toes and defends it on the off side. Last over before Lunch coming up.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, ! Short and punished! Joseph tries to go short but this is not short enough, outside off, Joe Root has to wait a bit for the ball to arrive due to the slowness of the surface before pulling it in front of square on the leg side for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Fuller and zoning in on the stumps, Ollie Pope gets his bat in front of the pads and clips it past mid-wicket for a run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a back of a length, over middle, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and tucks it to mid-wicket.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, ! Lovely shot! Seales overcooks as he serves a juicy half volley, on middle, Joe Root stays balanced in the crease and clips it through mid-wicket. Root gets his first boundary after 16 balls.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, At 135 kph, on off, on a length, Joe Root tries to put Seales off his stump-to-stump line by walking across early but Seales holds his line. Root closes the bat face early and gets a soft leading edge that dribbles past the bowler.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Touch fuller but continues to attack the stumps does Seales, Joe Root pats it back to the bowler from the crease.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Quick single taken! Fired in, on a good length, on middle, Ollie Pope tucks it to the right of mid on and scampers across for a quick run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Attacks the off pole, on a good length, Ollie Pope covers the line of the ball and defends it out with a straight bat.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Goes full but down leg, Ollie Pope gets inside the line to tickle it fine but misses.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, Too straight on the pads, on a length, Joe Root flicks it away off his pads to the left of fine leg for a couple of runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, On a back of a length, on middle, Joe Root hangs back and nudges it to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, Joseph opens Root up with this one!
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, On a nagging length, on off, the ball keeps a bit low but Joe Root adjusts to the bounce and blocks it out.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Full but sliding on the pads, Ollie Pope helps it down to fine leg for a single.
Change?
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A maiden by Seales to start his new spell! Around the off pole, on a good length, the ball holds its line a bit, Joe Root covers the line of the ball and defends it on the off side.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, In that corridor of off, on a nagging length, not close to make Root play as he lets it go.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, No run.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Beauty! Seales goes full at 137 kph with an upright seam, around off, Joe Root is caught on the crease as he looks to push it down the ground with a straight bat. The ball pitches and nips away to go past the outside edge.
Jayden Seales (2-0-28-0) comes back into the attack.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A bit closer this time, on a short of a length, left alone again by Root.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Starts from over the wicket, on a good length, shaping away a touch, outside off, Joe Root leaves the ball alone.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Back on it for the final delivery! Serves it on a good length, just outside off, Ollie Pope defends it right under his eyeliner. With 20 minutes to go for Lunch, England are 118/2.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Oh, hello! Where did that come from?
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Nicely done! Fractionally short, outside off, Ollie Pope is quick to hop back and get into the position. Drags the pull through square leg for a boundary.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Fuller in length at 139 kph, outside off, Ollie Pope leans on and drives it straight to cover. Shamar Joseph and West Indies won't mind Pope playing away from his body.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angling in at the pads, on a length, Ollie Pope nudges it off his pads but straight to mid-wicket.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Sharp stop! On a back of a length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and runs it on the bounce towards gully where Alick Athanaze flies to his right to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Sinclair changes his angle of attack as he comes from around the wicket and drifts it away, on middle, full in length, Ollie Pope clips it off the front foot to mid-wicket where the fielder misfields and concedes a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Joe Root, Short and on off, Joe Root gets on the back foot and steers it behind backward point. Root gets off the mark with a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Joe Root, Fires it full and outside off, Joe Root rocks back and blocks it to the off side.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Joe Root walks out to bat at number 4 for England.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! EDGED AND TAKEN! Shamar Joseph gets the reward for his persistence!
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Hits the deck hard, over off, the ball straightens a bit off the deck, Ben Duckett is equal to the task as he blocks it out on the leg side.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! Slightest of width and Ben Duckett is all over it!
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, This is on a short of a good length, angling in, on off, Ben Duckett does not have much room to work with and he can only stab it down the deck.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Pulls the length back slightly and keeps it in the corridor of uncertainty on off, Ben Duckett covers the line of the ball and defends it on the off side.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Joseph steams in from around the wicket for the left-hander, full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it with a straight bat towards mid off.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Keeps it full and on the off pole, Ben Duckett eases it down to long off and picks up a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, ! Risky but effective! Looped up, on a fullish length, on off, Ben Duckett gets a big stride in as he reaches out and takes it on the full. Sweeps it all along the ground and beats Jayden Seales in the deep who slid to his right but failed to cut it off. The 100-run stand comes up between these two batters!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Speared in, full and on middle, blocked out off the front foot by Ben Duckett.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Drifting in, full and on middle, Ben Duckett drives it down the deck where Sinclair dives to his right to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Fired in at 97 kph, full and on middle, Ollie Pope gets on the front foot and wrists it to deep square leg for one.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pope connects the pull shot this time! Shamar digs it in short, on off, Ollie Pope hangs back and rides the bounce nicely to pull it to deep square leg for a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Slants it in, on off, on a good length, Ollie Pope extends his hands and times the drive well but picks out the man at cover.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Missed out! On a length, straying on the pads, Ollie Pope tries to help it away off his pads but misses and wears it on the front pad.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a good length, but not close enough to make the batter play. Left alone outside off by Pope.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Oh, that whizzed under the bat!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Play and a miss! At 139 kph, zipping through, on a shortish length, outside off, Ollie Pope swivels to drag the pull in front of square on the leg side but misses as the ball goes under the bat.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Slips it in full and on middle, Ben Duckett hangs back and works it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drifting away a touch with the breeze, full and outside off, Ollie Pope gets a good stride in and glides it behind square on the off side for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Gives the ball air nicely, full and on middle, Ollie Pope lunges and blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Loops it up, full and on middle, Ollie Pope presses forward and nudges it past mid-wicket for a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, At the stumps, on a good length, Ollie Pope clips this one off the stumps towards deep backward square leg and retains the strike with a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, There's that head of Pope falling towards the off side, which has many times led to his downfall!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pope didn't hold back there, did he? Joseph errs in line as he offers width on off, on a length, Ollie Pope's eyes light up as he throws hands at the delivery to thrash it through the off side but connects with thin air.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pitches it right up does Joseph, a juicy half volley, on off, Ollie Pope cracks the drive but can't get it past cover.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Just a push and it fetches Ollie Pope a couple of runs! Shaping away, on a good length, on off, Ollie Pope lets the ball come to him and just presents a straight bat. Pats it back past the bowler for two runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Fuller and quicker, drifting in on the pads, Ben Duckett misses the flick shot. The ball comes off his pads and it is taken low at short leg. A tidy start by Kevin Sinclair, just 2 runs off it.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Darts it in from around the wicket to the left-hander, short in length, on middle and leg, Ben Duckett whips it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Floats it up, slower and fuller, on middle, knocked down to long on for a single by Pope.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, At 93 kph, on a nagging length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on the back foot and pats it to point.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, This goes straight on, short and on off, Ollie Pope rocks back and punches it towards the non-striker. Kevin Sinclair moves to his right quickly to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Tosses it up, full and on the pads, Ben Duckett clips it through square leg and gets to the other end.
First signs of spin as Kevin Sinclair is introduced into the attack.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angling in again from over the wicket, on a short of a good length, on off, Ollie Pope stabs it down on the off side. A maiden to start the second hour of the first session!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, A mix-up but no harm done!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, And again! Banged on a hard length, around off, Ollie Pope has a feel for it again as he looks to play it away from his body behind square on the off side. Gets taken aback as the ball climbs on him and zips past the bat. Encouraging signs for Shamar Joseph.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and gets a hint of away movement, on a length, in the channel on off, Ollie Pope watchfully leaves the ball alone.
Drinks break! Well, if you're a fan of 'Bazball' and missed your dose in the first Test, you'll be pretty happy with what has transpired so far. The runs have come thick and fast for England after the loss of Zak Crawley, with Ben Duckett being the aggressor of the two batters. Jayden Seales has been all over the place with his lines and lengths as has Alzarri Joseph since the first over, resulting in boundaries being leaked from both ends. Jason Holder has comparatively been better but on wha
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Bowls it outside off and on a length, Ben Duckett pushes it straight into the hands of the fielder at short cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Another fuller length-delivery on off, Ben Duckett times his cut well but finds the fielder at cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Full and outside off, Ben Duckett with soft hands drives it to mid off.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Keeps it away from the batter and lands it well outside off, on a length, Ben Duckett leaves it alone.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Takes some pace off and bowls it full, outside off, Ben Duckett looks to drive this one too but misses!
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! Comes from around the wicket and serves a fuller-length delivery with too much width outside off, Ben Duckett gets low in his stance and times his drive through covers for a boundary.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, A tad fuller in length and onto the pads, Ben Duckett clips it behind the square of the wicket on the leg side for a single to end the over. He will retain the strike for the next over!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Slants this one on a fuller length into the stumps, Ollie Pope drives it off the inner half of the bat towards mid on for just a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Cuts it through with extreme precision! On a length and on top of off, Ollie Pope waits deep in the crease and cuts it past gully for a boundary.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Attacks the stumps on a good length, Ollie Pope blocks it to mid on.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph is introduced into the attack now, replacing Alzarri Joseph.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Starts from over the wicket and hits the perfect length, just outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to backward point.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Another nice looking shot but will not fetch him any runs! Full and slanting into the stumps, Ben Duckett gets his front leg out and drives it well but finds the fielder at mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, On a length, outside off, Ben Duckett cuts it to backward point.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, hits the good length and gets the ball to come in with the angle, Ben Duckett looks to play it across the line but gets an outside edge towards covers.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Angles it in, around middle and leg and on a length, Ollie Pope tucks it to mid on for a single.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Full and on off, Ben Duckett takes a good stride out and drives it past cover for three good runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! FIFTY for Ben Duckett off just 32 deliveries! Jason Holder bowls this outside off and on a shorter length, Ben Duckett opens his bat face enough and cuts this one through the gap between gully and point for four runs. Third fastest fifty for England in Test cricket with the fastest being off 28 balls by Ian Botham.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, On a length, into the pads, Ben Duckett looks to flick it away fine but gets beaten. The ball clips his front pad and rolls in front of square leg. The batters cross for a leg bye!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Digs it on a shorter length over middle and off, Ben Duckett swivels across and looks to pull but the ball just climbs on his as it shoots off the deck and goes through to the keeper.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to the left of backward point who does well in stopping the ball and keeping it down to just a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Bangs it on a nagging length, on top of off, Ollie Pope judges the length right and leaves it alone.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in on a length and around the pads, Ollie Pope flicks it to mid-wicket.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! Even the slightest of errors in line and lengths are proving to be costly for West Indies! Too full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it beautifully past mid on for a boundary to end the over.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! A loosener from Jason Holder and Ben Duckett cashes in! Too full and outside off, Ben Duckett crisps his drive through cover for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Attacks the pads on a length, Ben Duckett gets his bat ahead and blocks it out to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, At 128kph, bowls it full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it to mid off.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Angles it across on a good length and on top of off, Ben Duckett rocks back and cuts it in front of backward point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope blocks it in front of covers. A good couple of overs from the West Indies to stem the flow of runs!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in, on a good length around middle and leg, Ollie Pope tucks it straight to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, NO BALL! Alzarri Joseph has overstepped! A length-delivery outside off, Ben Duckett just cuts it in front of covers and gets a quick single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Bowls it fuller and continues to target outside off, Ben Duckett just blocks it in front of mid off.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Hits the deck on a shorter length just outside off, Ben Duckett cuts it to backward point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Fuller this time around off, Ben Duckett pushes it to mid off.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Angles this across on a good length around that fifth stump line, Ben Duckett with an angled bat slaps it hard but finds the man at backward point.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, A good over for Jason Holder and West Indies! Just one run off it! Holder bowls it full and outside off, Ollie Pope with delicate hands blocks it to gully.Â
-
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ollie Pope pushes it to mid on this time.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, At 126 kph, lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope leaves this one alone for the keeper to collect.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Starts from over the wicket and goes full, just outside off, Ben Duckett drives it past point for a single.Â
Bowling change? Yes, Jason Holder comes into the attack as the first change.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the good length on off, Ollie Pope eases to covers.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Fractionnaly fuller this time on middle and leg, Ben Duckett pulls it to deep backward square leg for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! Another one! Short of a length angled into the batter, Ben Duckett slaps it through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Comes from around the wicket and bowls it on a length around middle and off, Ben Duckett looks to drive it but mistimes it to back to the bowler.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Four!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Digs it too short on middle and leg, Ben Duckett pulls it all along the ground to deep backward square leg for a brace.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Angles it into the left-hander on a length and into the pads, Ben Duckett tucks it to deep square leg for a single. 9 runs come of this over and England are 44/1 at the end of 4!
In case you missed it, the Pavilion end of Trent Bridge was renamed in honour of former England fast bowler and Nottingham-born Stuart Broad before the start of the play.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Guided it well! On a shorter length outside off, Ben Duckett waits back and steers it well past gully for a boundary.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Falling just short of the keeper! On a length, outside off inviting the batter to to cut. Ben Duckett with not much of foot movement looks to slash at it and gets a thin outside edge falling short of the wicketkeeper.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! The third consecutive boundary for England! Jayden Seales bangs it on a shorter length but gives width outside off, Ben Duckett rocks back and just times his cut past point for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Timed to perfection! On a good length angled into the pads, Ollie Pope brings his bottom hand into play and flicks it beautifully to the left of square leg for another boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Runs flowing thick and fast for England since that first over! This is short of a length and outside off, Ollie Pope quickly transfers his weight back and cuts it well past gully for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a length and into the pads, Ollie Pope tucks it with soft hands towards deep square leg and gets two more runs.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, That a top delivery! Lands it on a nagging length around off and gets the ball to move away a touch as Ollie Pope looks to poke at it. The ball beats the outside edge!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in on a fuller length but down leg.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, A good delivery now after 5 bad ones! Hits the deck hard around off and gets the ball to shape away a bit, Ben Duckett gets his bat high and blocks it inside the line as the ball zips through to the keeper.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Comes from around the wicket but it doesn't change the outcome for Jayden Seales as Ben Duckett sends it to the boundary on the other side! Too full and angling into the stumps, Ben Duckett flicks it beautifully past mid-wicket for a boundary.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Easy pickings! Jayden Seales drags the length short but offers a lot of width outside off. Ben Duckett rocks back in a flash and cuts it through point this time for back-to-back boundaries.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Not the ideal start from Jayden Seales as he offers a freebie to Ben Duckett who gets off the mark in some style. Too full and outside off, Duckett just leans on it and crisps his drive through covers for a boundary.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, WIDE! Comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and well outside off for a wide.Â
Who will operate from the other end?
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Top, top shot to get things underway for England and Ollie Pope! Too full this time from Alzarri Joseph, onto the stumps, Ollie Pope times his straight drive to perfection sending the ball past mid on for a nice-looking boundary. England at 4/1 after the first over!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the perfect length around that off-stump line, Ollie Pope pushes it back to the bowler.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the deck hard and gets the ball to bounce around middle, Ollie Pope covers the line and tucks it to short mid-wicket.
Ollie Pope walks in at number 3.
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, CAUGHT! What a perfect start this has been for West Indies! Zak Crawley has to walk back for a duck!
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, Bangs it into the surface on a shorter length and angling it into the right-hander on middle and leg, Zak Crawley gets his bat high and blocks it out, awkwardly!
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, No run.
All in readiness for the action to commence on the first morning of the 2nd Test. The sun is shining its full glory as the two umpires make their way out to the middle. West Indies are in a huddle near the ropes before taking their places on the field. It will be the left-hand right-hand combination of Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley to open the innings for England.
JUST IN - West Indies have been forced to make a late change to their playing XI announced yesterday. Gudakesh Motie woke up feeling unwell and he will be replaced by Kevin Sinclair. This could prove to be a blessing in disguise for the visitors as Sinclair has the batting credentials to go with his off spin, adding depth to their batting unit.
West Indies (Playing XI) - Kraigg Brathwaite (C), Mikyle Louis, Kirk Mckenzie, Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Jason Holder, Joshua Da Silva (WK), Alzarri Joseph, Kevin Sinclair (In for Gudakesh Motie), Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales.
England (Playing XI) - Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (WK), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, Shoaib Bashir.
TOSS - The coin toss lands in the favour of West Indies and they have opted to BOWL first.
And with that, we end our discussion for the time being. The one-hour sermon is completed and it is time to take a pause. No no, not from the game - but from our discussions. Because the action is about to begin. And when there is action happening out there in the middle, let that speak for itself. Hardly a cloud is seen in the sky as Ben Stokes leads his side out to the middle. Excellent crowd with the first three days being sold out, informed by Nasser Hussain on air. No Jimmy Anderson, remem
Normally, in England, pitches tend to quicken from Day 2. And the fast bowlers usually come to the party, especially on the second day. Then, the pitch slowly starts to flatten out and perhaps take some turn come Days 4 and 5. So the best batting conditions would be from today onwards and the tourists have been given another opportunity - get the best of batting conditions and make use of the willow. Yes, the opposition has got 400-plus, but thanks to their batting approach, don't you have quali
Given that we always like to take detours, let's take a turn now. We mentioned about a legend so shall talk a bit about his department. Bowling. More prominently, spin. Whether it was Shamar Joseph's discomfort or whether it was the fact that the second new ball was around the corner and the quicks needed to be rested - Kraigg Brathwaite turned to spin seriously around the 70-over mark and by the end of the day, 4 wickets had gone to the tweakers - 2 apiece to Kevin Sinclair and Kavem Hodge. S
We now cast a look at the rest of the batters and barring Stokes and Crawley, everyone else got in and got out. It is understood that is, in essence, what Bazball implies - keep attacking. But the last time when I checked the rule book, nowhere was it mentioned that a batting side should bat for only one day in a Test. So why the hurry? If batters are going to come in, get set and then throw it away, how good will it do for a viewer? Wasn't this same thing exposed first by Australia and then, br
For people following English cricket, this would not be the first time Ollie Pope has been compared to an Ian Bell or Joe Root. That's primarily because of the way he bats, with technique extremely solid and footwork totally assured. On paper. In reality, he has been just a prolonged advert of what big is to come. But for how long will the advert last and people wait for the actual movie? In 79 innings in Tests, Pope has crossed the 50-mark 18 times - that's roughly one every 4-5 innings. But
It was another of many, not only for West Indies, but for England as well. We mentioned about Ollie Pope and for a reason. Not just because of his 121, but because the first 50-odd runs never gave any assurance of him being set at the crease. He was dropped twice, on either side of the Lunch break and he was more than happy to make the Windies pay. That's one of many for West Indies - try and look competitive numerous times in Tests, only to kick opportunities with both feet and letting the oppo
No disrespect at all to any English fan. The cricket played by their team has been supreme with their superior skills clearly visible on display. But as any neutral cricket fan would wish, a CONTEST is what is anticipated when a fixture is announced. Test cricket is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport as it tests the players' resolve, again and again. And when that happens and players pass that test, it brings a joy to watch for a viewer. But when there is barely a test for someone and th
Sadly, the second Test has also begun on the same note. Not because England have raked 400-plus in a day. But because we are not sure whether there was any plan in place by the West Indies in their bowling. And if there was any, it was clearly not followed. The first new ball was wasted, being sprayed on both sides of the wicket, with the lengths not being consistent and England capitalized. In fact, the visitors would have totally forgotten that they had Zak Crawley caught in the slip cordon o
For all those who could not catch the action on Day 1 of the second Test, it was purely action packed, with 416 runs scored at around 4.7 an over, with 10 wickets falling. And to add, 90 overs were not even bowled. West Indies chose to bowl on what teams normally do in English conditions, with the pitch predicted to get better on subsequent days. But then, England chose to attack and not only did they attack the ball, they attacked the mindset and soul of the visitors. One look at the scorecard
Watch out! The next season of your favourite web series is set to release on so and so date. I am sure, in this digital age of OTT platforms, many of us would have already got hooked onto the habit of watching web series and what not on the digital platform. Seems like Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes have taken an inspiration from the same. After Bazball was heavily criticized in India, that method seemingly took a break in the first Test at Lord's. But come the second Test, it is back. And back
... DAY 2 ...
England will aim to come out all guns blazing early on Day 2, looking to press their dominance with the ball. West Indies will need to survive that crucial first hour, where the ball is likely to do most of the talking, and then focus on stitching together small partnerships to give themselves a chance for a strong comeback in this Test.
Right then, that's a wrap for Day 1, with England firmly in the driver's seat thanks to some extraordinary batting performances. West Indies will be hoping for a stronger start on Day 2 as they look to mount a comeback. Join us for all the action on Day 2, starting at 3.30 pm IST (10 am GMT). Until then, cheers and goodbye!
In the final session, West Indies tightened their approach, securing the prized wicket of Ollie Pope. However, they struggled to capitalize on the breakthrough, allowing Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith to form another 50+ partnership. Stokes eventually fell for a well-compiled 69. The spinners then regained some control, with Kavem Hodge claiming two wickets to expose the tail. Despite some resistance from Mark Wood and Chris Woakes, West Indies wrapped things up efficiently, claiming all remainin
In the second session, West Indies began with tight bowling that resulted in the dismissal of Joe Root. However, they struggled to maintain momentum as their bowlers faltered, compounded by a couple of missed opportunities in the field. After a promising start, Harry Brook fell quickly, but Ollie Pope capitalized on being dropped twice to notch up a century, ultimately closing the session in England's favour.
This has been a fantastic end to the day's play as England firmly grasp control of the second Test match ending their first innings with 416 runs on the board at the end of Day 1. West Indies after a tough day did well in this final session to pull things back and wrap this English side up. In the final session, 35.3 overs saw 157 runs scored, but more importantly for West Indies, they managed to claim 6 crucial wickets.
England seized control of the game in the very first session despite an early setback in the opening over. Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope capitalized on loose deliveries from the West Indies bowlers, laying a solid foundation before Duckett's dismissal. Joe Root then partnered with Ollie Pope to guide the team safely to Lunch with 134 runs on the board. West Indies managed to tighten their bowling towards the end of the session, gaining some momentum heading into the break.
Alzarri Joseph to Shoaib Bashir, ! CAUGHT! The outside edge goes to hand this time! Alzarri Joseph wraps up the England innings! Alzarri Joseph hurls it in, on a nagging length, on off, Shoaib Bashir stays on the back foot and hops to get on top of the bounce. Looks to defend it out with a straight bat but gets an outside edge again. It goes low but straight into the hands of second slip where Jason Holder is expecting the edge and he stays low to grab it low in front.
Alzarri Joseph to Shoaib Bashir, ! Edged away! Alzarri Joseph delivers it on a hard length, tighter line, on off and middle, Shoaib Bashir gets on his toes and shows the full face of the bat to cover the line of the ball. Gets an outside edge that flies towards gully and it beats Alick Athanaze to his right for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, NO BALL! Joseph serves it full this time, around off, Mark Wood backs away to access the off side and has to reach out to drive it to deep point for a single. Alzarri Joseph has overstepped!
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, Joseph bends his back and digs it in short, outside off, Mark Wood is happy to let that one go behind to the keeper.
Alzarri Joseph will bowl the final over of the day.Â
Jayden Seales to Mark Wood, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Mark Wood, Big swing and a miss! Short of a length and zoning in, around middle and leg, Mark Wood clears his front leg and leaves nothing in the tank as he swings to go back over the bowler's head but misses and gets beaten on the inside edge.
Jayden Seales to Shoaib Bashir, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Shoaib Bashir, No run.
Shoaib Bashir will be the last man to walk in for England.
Jayden Seales to Chris Woakes, ! EDGED AND GONE! Jayden Seales gets his line and length right this time and he gets the reward!
Jayden Seales to Chris Woakes, ! Neatly done! Jayden Seales sprays it on the pads and it is full in length, Chris Woakes stays balanced in the crease and with a still head, clips it through mid-wicket for a boundary.
Jayden Seales (14-1-84-1)Â to share the new ball from the other end.
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, Joseph goes slightly wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and spears it in, full and at the pads, Mark Wood clips it nicely but straight to mid on.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, Joseph goes slightly fuller this time, on off, Chris Woakes stays rooted in the crease and dabs it past backward point for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, At 142 kph, on a good length by Joseph, on off, Chris Woakes gets his bat out in front of his body to keep it out the ball climbs onto him off the deck and hits him high on the bat.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, Honing in at the stumps, on a length, Chris Woakes covers the line of the ball and defends it out on the off side.
Right then, West Indies have finally opted to take the new ball. It will be Alzarri Joseph to have the first bite at this second new ball.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, ! Too straight and these are easy pickings!
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Hodge attacks the stumps with a full delivery, Chris Woakes knocks it down to long on for one as England move to 397.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Fuller in length, on off, Mark Wood eases it to long off and gets to the other end.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Hodge serves it flat and short, over middle, Mark Wood punches it back to Hodge.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, There's that tempter by Hodge, looped up, full and wide on off, Mark Wood is happy to let that one go.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Too straight, full and on the pads by Hodge, Chris Woakes tickles it fine towards the fine leg fence for a couple of runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Fuller this time by Sinclair, on off and middle, Mark Wood drives it straight back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Keeps it flat and short, on middle and leg, Mark Wood goes back in his crease and defends it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Sinclair bowls it short, on middle, Chris Woakes rocks back and nurdles it past square leg for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, ! Good use of the feet! Sinclair floats it up, full and on off, Chris Woakes shimmies down the track and times the drive to the right of Jason Holder at mid off for a boundary.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Drops it short now, on off, Chris Woakes gets on the back foot and slaps it past point for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Pushes it through this time, on off, Mark Wood knocks it down to long off for a single with a straight bat.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Nicely bowled! Slows it up and keeps it away from the batter's reach, outside off, fuller as well, Mark Wood reaches out but fails to connect.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, 2 runs.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, This is flat and short, at the stumps, Chris Woakes gets on one knee and paddles it over the keeper for a couple of runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tosses it up, full and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to deep cover for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Fuller in length and on off, Chris Woakes pushes it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tossed up, on off, Chris Woakes gets a good stride out before blocking it right under his eyes.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Bowls it full and on the off stump line, Mark Wood drives it to cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, 3 runs.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Tosses this one up outside off, Mark Wood cuts it to backward point.Â
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Bowls it full and on off, Mark Wood drives it down to mid off.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Has that been grassed?
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
The new ball is now due for West Indies! Will they go for it right away?
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Short and on off, Mark Wood punches it down to long off for one.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Floats it up, full and on off, Mark Wood drills it hard but straight to cover.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Floated up, full and at the stumps, Chris Woakes blocks it out down the deck.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, 1 run.
Mark Wood walks out to bat at number 10 for England.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, ! c Kavem Hodge b Kevin Sinclair.
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, Loops this one up on a fuller length and on off, Gus Atkinson blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Fuller and on middle and leg, Chris Woakes flicks it to square leg for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Gus Atkinson, No run.
Is that out? There has been an umpire's review for Run-out at the bowler's end.Â
Kavem Hodge to Gus Atkinson, Fires this one short and drifting into middle and leg, Gus Atkinson rocks back and trickles it down to fine leg for a couple to get off the mark.Â
Gus Atkinson walks out to bat at number 9 for England.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! c Jason Holder b Kavem Hodge.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! Clean strike!
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Full and sliding on, middle, Jamie Smith defends it out on the leg side.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Drops it short and on off, Chris Woakes punches it down to long off for one.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Beaten!
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Full and on middle, Jamie Smith lunges and knocks it to the right of the bowler but can't get it past the man at short mid on.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Short and on middle, punched off the back toot to long on for one by Woakes.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tossed up around off, Chris Woakes taps it to the fielder at cover.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Goes full and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to deep cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Darts this one full and into the stumps, Chris Woakes gets his bat down and jams it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Fuller and quicker, on off, Chris Woakes works it to cover again.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Coming in with the angle, full and on off, Chris Woakes pushes it to cover.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Lands it full again, on off and middle, Chris Woakes gets on the front foot to defend.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Attacks the stumps, on a nagging length, Jamie Smith gets right behind the line of the ball and pushes it to mid on.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, ! Creamed away!
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Fuller and wide on off, Jamie Smith reaches out and slices it past backward point for a couple of runs.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, That could have so nearly trickled back onto the stumps! Full and slanting in from over the wicket, on middle and leg, Jamie Smith walks right across his stumps and lifts his back leg to play the flick shot but misses.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Angling in, on a nagging length, around off, Chris Woakes plays it right under his eyeline as he steers it past gully for a single. The 350 comes up for England!
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Darted in, short and at the stumps, Jamie Smith stays back and blocks it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Pulls the length back and spears it in, outside off, Chris Woakes hangs back and dabs it square of the wicket on the off side for one.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Slows it up and gets a bit of away turn, full and just outside off, Jamie Smith plays it with the turn to deep cover for a run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Fired in, fuller and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to the right of the diving cover fielder for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, A bit fuller and at the stumps, Chris Woakes lunges and pats it back to the bowler.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Speared in, on a nagging length, on middle, Chris Woakes defends it off the front foot.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, In the channel on off, on a good length, Jamie Smith does not quite get behind the line of the ball and extends his hands to steer it along the ground towards gully.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Holder goes slightly wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and delivers it on a back of a length, over the off pole, Jamie Smith gets on his toes and keeps it out on the off side.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Hurls it on a back of a length, on middle, Chris Woakes hops back and nudges it to deep mid-wicket and gets to the other end.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Beaten! This comes in with the angle, on a good length, just outside off, Chris Woakes gets on the front foot to defend it out but plays inside the line of the ball and gets beaten on the outside edge.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Hooping back in from a wide angle, full and on off, Chris Woakes gets his bat out in front of the pads and plays it back to the bowler.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Short and wide on off, at 128 kph, Jamie Smith hangs back and frees his arms to cut it through point for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Drops it short again, on off, Jamie Smith stands tall and punches it to deep cover to keep the strike with a single. End of a successful over for Kavem Hodge and West Indies.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Drags the length back and attacks the stumps, Jamie Smith gets on the back foot and keeps it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Floated up, full and on off, Chris Woakes presses forward and drives it past cover for a single to get off the mark.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Angling in from around the wicket, full and on middle, Chris Woakes blocks it out off the front foot.
Chris Woakes walks out to bat at number 8 for England.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, ! STRAIGHT TO THE FIELDER! Maiden Test wicket for Kavem Hodge and it is the big one of Ben Stokes! The English skipper could not have picked the fielder out there in the deep any better.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Drifts it in, full from around the wicket, on middle, Ben Stokes clips it straight to mid-wicket.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Length delivery, coming back in, outside off, Jamie Smith shuffles across and comes down the track to push it back to the bowler.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, A bit fuller at 128 kph, outside off, Jamie Smith makes a late decision to glide it along the ground to gully.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Goes wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle, on a length, tailing in, on off, Jamie Smith covers the line of the ball and stabs it down the deck.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Angling in from over the wicket, on a back of a length, on off, Jamie Smith hops back and blocks it out with a straight bat as the ball pops up a bit off the deck.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and hits the deck hard, over off, Ben Stokes waits on the back foot and dabs it to deep point for a single.
Drinks break! England have managed to add 82 runs in the first hour after Tea, taking their total to 341. Both Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith have largely been untroubled and are ticking along nicely. West Indies are yet to show any real signs of aggression, despite taking wickets intermittently. This lack of sustained pressure is an issue they need to address promptly heading into this final hour of play on Day 1.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! Sheer power behind that!
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Darts another one full and onto the stumps, Ben Stokes cuts it to deep cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Shorter in length and on off, Ben Stokes makes room and cuts it to deep cover for a couple more.Â
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, On a length, into the stumps, Jamie Smith tucks it along the ground to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, On a length, just outside off, Ben Stokes cuts it to the right of deep point for a couple of runs. Also brings up the 50-run stand between these two.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, ! Nice shot! Holder digs it short outside off, Ben Stokes swivels and pulls it firmly through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Goes full and hurls it outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to covers.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and lands it on a good length, on off, Ben Stokes blocks it to covers.Â
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Quicker this time and flighted on a fuller length, on off, Jamie Smith defends it on the front foot.Â
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Switches to around the wicket and drags the length short and lands it around middle and leg, Jamie Smith tucks it away to deep square leg for a single.Â
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Starts from over the wicket and tosses it full on the stumps, Ben Stokes nudges it to long on for a single.
Change.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Bowls it straight and attacks the stumps, on a hard length, Jamie Smith is hurried a bit but does well to keep it out.Â
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, On a back of a length, over off, Jamie Smith dabs it down the deck.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Full and into the pads, Ben Stokes clips it to square leg.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, On a length, just outside off, Ben Stokes charges down the track and looks to go big over mid off but slices it to deep covers for a couple of runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Bowls this quicker and fuller into the pads, Ben Stokes is quick on getting back deep in the crease as he clips it down to fine leg for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on the stumps, Ben Stokes taps it to mid on.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Tosses this one up, outside off, Jamie Smith drives it straight to covers.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, With a flatter trajectory, bowls this one full and on off, Jamie Smith rocks back and punches it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Bowls a low full toss outside off, Jamie Smith drives it straight to the man at covers.Â
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Fuller and outside off, Jamie Smith drives it well to deep point for a single.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Top running! Jason Holder bowls it with the angle coming in around middle and leg, Ben Stokes looks to block but gets an inside edge through his legs. Jamie Smith calls for the run as the folder from square leg charges in and throws a direct hit at the striker's end. Smith was well within the crease!
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, A tad shorter in length and outside off, Ben Stokes looks to cut it late but gets beaten on the outside edge with the extra bounce and pace behind it.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and lands it on a good length, just outside off, Ben Stokes defends it to cover.
-
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Shorter and outside off, Ben Stokes hangs back and cuts it to deep point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, NO BALL! Kevin Sinclair oversteps this time. Bowls it full and on off, Ben Stokes drives it straight back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and slanting into middle and off, Ben Stokes blocks it right under his eyes.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller, on off, Ben Stokes makes room and pushes it to cover.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drags the length down over off, Ben Stokes cuts it to backward point who does well diving to his right to keep it down to just a dot!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller on the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it out on the backfoot.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, On a back of a length, on off, Jamie Smith punches it with a straight bat back tot he bowler who does well to get his right arm down on his follow-through to make a stop.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Lands it on a shorter length, outside off, Jamie Smith punches it to cover.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Goes full and outside off, Jamie Smith drives it with full control in the gap between cover and point. The fielder charges the ball towards the fence and flicks it back in time. The batters get three good runs off it.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Comes from over the wicket and bangs the deck on a length, over the stumps, Jamie Smith opens up his stance and blocks it down the pitch.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drifiting in, full and at the stumps, Ben Stokes presses forward and works it straight to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Turning in a touch, fuller and on the pads, clipped straight to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Keeps it on a nagging length, on middle, Jamie Smith goes on the back foot and pats it back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Darts it in, flat and short, outside off, Ben Stokes rocks back and punches it in front of square on the off side for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Very full, on off, Ben Stokes firms the drive straight to a straightish short cover.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Four!
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Attacks the stumps on a good length, Jamie Smith gets his bat ahead and stabs it down the deck.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a length, outside off, Ben Stokes slashes it to deep backward point for a single.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Short and outside off, Ben Stokes slaps it to deep cover for a couple of runs.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Four!
Jayden Seales (12-1-69-1) is back for a burst.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Continues to keep it full and lands it around off, Jamie Smith drives it to mid off.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Full and outside off, Jamie Smith looks to slice it away but gets a thick outside edge to short third who makes a mess out of it allowing the batters two runs.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Angles this into the pads on a hard length, Jamie Smith hops back and tucks it to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a short of a length over middle, Ben Stokes pulls it to deep square leg for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Comes from over the wicket and hits the deck hard on a tight length into the bodyline, Ben Stokes gets cramped for room as he looks to flick it across the line and wears it on the pads.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Takes pace off and bowls it nice and full, on off, Jamie Smith blocks it back onto the deck.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Skids this one through on a fuller length and into the pads, Ben Stokes tucks it to mid-wicket for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Four!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on off, Ben Stokes gets a good stride out and pushes it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller on off, Ben Stokes blocks it on the front foot.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Full and on off, Ben Stokes drops his bat with delicate hands and cuts it to deep backward point for a single to end the over.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, WIDE! Digs it short and down leg! Ben Stokes ducks just enough to leave this one alone.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Beautiful shot! On a back of a length over middle, Ben Stokes is quick on getting on the backfoot and pulls it through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a good length, over off, Ben Stokes punches it to covers.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Follows up with a hard-length delivery, on off, Jamie Smith pushes it to covers.Â
Jamie Smith makes his way out to the centre.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! EDGED AND GONE! Alzarri Joseph gets the big, big wicket of Ollie Pope!Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Quicker this time, on a fuller length and on off, Ben Stokes drives it to short cover, yet gain.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Loops it full and into middle and off, Ben Stokes blocks it on the front foot.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Floated up, outside off, Ben Stokes frees his arms and drives it to deep cover for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a length, outside off, Ben Stokes opens the bat face and drives it to deep point for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a back of a length, around off, Ben Stokes slices it to point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Four!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No ball!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, At 139 kph, hurls it on a nagging length, angled across on middle and off, Ben Stokes hops back and dabs it out to the off side.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Slower through the air and on a fuller length around middle and leg, Ollie Pope clips it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and attacking the stumps, Ollie Pope digs it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drags the length short around off, Ollie Pope rocks back and cuts it to backward point.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Four!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to cover who throws a dive to his left only to get a hand to it as the batters scamper across for a single.
It will be spin in the form of Kevin Sinclair from the other end.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and on off, Ollie Pope drives it to long on for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes looks to cut it square on off but misses.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Two in the over for Ben Stokes! Alzarri Joseph digs it short and over middle, Ben Stokes swivels in the crease and pulls it all along the ground to deep backward square leg fence for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Angles this across on a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes holds his bat high and makes the leave.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Change of ends hasn't quite worked well as Alzarri Joseph bowls another freebie! Too full and outside off, asking to be hit. Ben Stokes leans on and drives it well past point for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
We are back.
⦠DAY 1, SESSION THREE ...
Having mentioned all of the above, West Indies need to believe that they can cause England to make mistakes. There have been a few flashy shots, a few streaky shots and the hosts have ridden their luck. There is experience in Pope and Stokes while Smith is in form, but that middle order still looks shaky. As Sir Geoffrey Boycott used to say - always look at the score with two wickets added to it and the game changes quickly.
You reap as you sow. We all know this proverb. West Indies are making a lifetime out of this. In almost every Test that they play, they give glimpses of their talent, only to put that into the bin by some carelessness. Even in this Test, in spite of the bowling being ordinary, the chances were created, only to be shelled. And add to that, Shamar Joseph's niggle doesn't help things. It seems like a long session is on the cards for the bowlers.
Ben Stokes has gotten off to a good start and this 5th-wicket stand has also crossed 50, making it 3 50+stands for the last 4 wickets. The hosts still have Jamie Smith to come, who had a phenomenal debut Test. What has been interesting is - in stark contrast to the previous Test, Bazball is clearly on display here, wherein Ben Stokes is keen to keep the scoring rate high at all times.
Another solid session for England where runs came at a good clip. From the 27 overs bowled in the session, 125 runs were scored at 4.63 runs per over. As play began after Lunch, England were dealt an early blow in the form of Joe Root. Coming in at the departure of Joe Root, Harry Brook made his intentions clear straight away and put the Windies bowlers to the sword. However, he failed to kick on and departed for 36. Dropped on either side of the Lunch break, Ollie Pope carried on his merry w
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ben Stokes, Full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to long off for a single. And that will be TEA on Day 1 with the scoreboard reading 259/4.
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ben Stokes, Bowls it full with the round-arm action, coming into the left-hander around middle and leg, Ben Stokes eases it to mid-wicket.
Shamar Joseph seems to be experiencing discomfort in his left hamstring and he is stretching himself out. The physio is out to have a look and Joseph is walking off the field. It will be Kraigg Brathwaite to complete the over. Due to this delay, it will now certainly be the final over before Tea.
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ollie Pope, Comes from around the wicket and slides this one full and outside off, Ollie Pope waits back and cuts to to third man for a single.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Stokes, Edged and falls short! Comes from around the wicket and bangs it on a nagging length, just outside off, Ben Stokes looks for the drive but gets an outside edge falling short of the third slip.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and hurls it on a back of a length, angling into middle, Ollie Pope clips it past mid-wicket for a single.Â
Shamar Joseph is back for what could be the penultimate over before Tea.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Slants this full and into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Shorter length and width on offer, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to deep backward point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Quicker and fuller into off, Ollie Pope blocks it back to the bowelr.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Loops this on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes slaps it to deep cover for a single.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a shorter length and into middle and off, Ben Stokes dabs it in front of mid-wicket and squeezes a single to bring up the fifty-run partnership between these two.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Gets the bouncer right this time does Jayden Seales! Bends his back and hits the deck hard over off, Ben Stokes sways away from the line.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Looks for the bouncer and hits the deck hard down leg. Ben Stokes looks to pull it away but the ball keeps low off the pitch.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes leaves it alone.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Top effort in the deep to keep it down to just two!
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on middle and leg, Ollie Pope tucks it to mid-wicket.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, A tad fuller and on off, Ollie Pope gets on the front foot but cuts it late to deep backward point for a couple of runs.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on off, Ollie Pope gets his front leg ahead and blocks it right under his eyes.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Bowls it full, on off, Ben Stokes pushes it to mid off.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, A few good-looking shots that haven't fetched him a single run! This is full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it straight to cover.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Width on offer outside off, on a fuller length, Ben Stokes leans ahead and crisps it to the fielder at backward point.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes watchfully leaves it alone.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes drives it off the center of the bat but finds the man at covers.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, A slight fumble from the bowler allows the single. Too full and on off, Ben Stokes drives it to the right of the bowler who gets to the ball quickly but doesn't bend down enough to make the stop.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Slants this full and into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drags the length short and wider than off, Ollie Pope rocks back quickly nad cuts it to deep point for one.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Quicker and fuller into the stumps, Ollie Pope gets a good stride out and blocks it.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, A sharp bouncer around middle and off, Ben Stokes sways away as this one zips past him.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Full and attacking the off stump line, Ollie Pope gets his bat ahead and pushes it past the bowler and to the left of mid on for a single.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Goes a tad fuller around off, Ollie Pope with soft hands blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Hits the hard length, around off, Ollie Pope blocks it back onto the deck.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, LEG BYES! Jayden Seales bangs it into the deck on a length and on leg, Ollie Pope looks to tuck it away fine but doesn't connect. The ball brushes his thigh pad and races away to the fine leg fence for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Moves to 99 with that single! Too full, on off, Ollie Pope whips it down to long on for one.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, ! Errs in line for once and pays the price! Bowls it down leg, on a fuller length, Ollie Pope gets low on a knee and sweeps it fine past the keeper for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on off, Ollie Pope drives it to sweeper cover for a brace.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, A no-look reverse sweep that! Tossed up around off, Ollie Pope reverse sweeps it to deep point for a couple of runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a length, outside off. The ball kicks off the surface and Ben Stokes leaves it alone. A good end to the over from Jason Holder!
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Fuller and on off, Ben Stokes drives it on the full but straight to mid off.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Angles this one across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes leaves it alone.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Too full this time into middle and leg, Ollie Pope clips it past mid-wicket. Alzarri Joseph from mid on chases the ball and does well to push it back into play. The batters get three runs off it.Â
A change of bat for Ben Stokes. The selection has been done and we are all good to go.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, ! Gets it through the gap beautifully! Jason Holder serves this juicy half-volley outside off, Ollie Pope leans ahead and creams it through covers for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Fires this one quicker and into the stumps, Ben Stokes pats it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drags the length a tad shorter and on off, Ben Stokes pushes it to cover.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Tosses this one full and slanting into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it to the off side.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ben Stokes gets his front leg out and taps it back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Too full and just outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to cover.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Bowls it slower and fuller, outside off, Ollie Pope reaches out and slashes it over backward point for a single to end the over.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, On a length just outside off, Ollie Pope leans on it and drives it straight to the man at cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Full and angles into the pads, Ollie Pope clips it to mid-wicket.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Goes full again but attacks the stumps, Ollie Pope drives it to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, ! Errs in line and Ollie Pope makes full use of it! Too full and into the pads, Ollie Pope flicks it well through the square leg region for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Steams from over the wicket and bangs the deck on a good length, outside off, Ollie Pope watches the line and shoulders arms.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Bowls it full and outside off, Ollie Pope looks for the cut but misses out.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on the pads, Ben Stokes clips it square of the wicket on the leg side for a single to get off the mark.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
The captain of England, Ben Stokes walks in now.
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, ! c Kirk Mckenzie b Kevin Sinclair.
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, Goes full and attacks the stumps, Harry Brook blocks it right under his eyes.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, End of a good over from Jason Holder! Bangs it on a fuller length, outside off with some away movement off the deck, Ollie Pope holds his bat up and leaves this one alone.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Takes some pace off and bowls it full, outside off, Ollie Pope drives it well but straight to cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Continues to keep it tight around the fourth stump line, on a nagging length, Ollie Pope watchfully blocks it out.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Goes fuller and outside off, Ollie Pope drives it straight to mid off.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, On a length, outside off, Harry Brook cuts it hard to the left of deep point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, Bowls this quicker and fuller just outside off. The ball skids through and stays a bit low. Harry Brook adjusts well on the backfoot and cuts it to deep point for a single. Brings up the 200 runs for England!
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Tosses it up around middle and off, Ollie Pope pushes it to long on and gets a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Bowls this one full and onto middle and leg, Ollie Pope punches it to mid-wicket.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Flatter and fuller, into the pads, Ollie Pope clips it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Flights this one fuller and on off, Ollie Pope takes a big stride out and blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Drinks! England maintain a firm grip in the first half of this session, taking full advantage of West Indies' erratic bowling. Despite losing Joe Root, the team has capitalized on loose deliveries and made the most of it asserting their dominance in this session. West Indies will be desperate to regroup and tighten their bowling, as opportunities for wickets have slipped through their fingers with a couple of crucial dropped catches. The stage is perfectly set for an exciting conclusion to th
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, No run.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Another misfield!
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Fuller in length, on off, Harry Brook drives it well but straight to cover.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Gets the ball to tail back in from wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle, on the sixth stump line, on a hard length, Harry Brook reads it well, covers his off pole and lets it go.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, A fumble and they get back for the second run!
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Begins his new spell from over the wicket and goes full, outside off, Harry Brook watchfully leaves the ball alone.
Jason Holder (4-0-21-0) comes back into the attack.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, In and around the sixth stump line, on a good length, Ollie Pope covers the line of the ball and pats it back to the bowler. A maiden by Joseph!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes full at 130 kph, outside off, a tempter for Ollie Pope who does not fall for the trap and shoulders arms.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, This straightens up a bit off the deck, on a short of a good length, on off, Ollie Pope waits on the back foot and stabs it down on the off side.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, At 134 kph, outside off, on a length, Ollie Pope is happy to let that one go.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Touch fuller by Joseph and it moves away a bit, outside off, Ollie Pope lunges and drives it straight to mid off.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a short of a good length, around off, Ollie Pope punches it to cover.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Into the wicket by Joseph but the line is around leg, Harry Brook ducks and lets it go.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Fuller in length, on off, driven back towards the bowler by Brook. Holder makes a half stop in his follow through and parries it to mid off.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Cracking shot! Alzarri Joseph bends his back and digs it in short. This is not a bad delivery by any means. In the channel on off, on a shortish length, Harry Brook does not have much room to work with but he arches back and creates the room. Gets on top of the bounce nicely and slaps it over the deep backward point fence for a six.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Digs this short and hits the deck hard outside off, Harry Brook looks to slash it over point but makes no connection.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Gets enough on it! Shamar Joseph errs in line and sprays this fuller-length delivery into middle and leg, Ollie Pope glances it fine for a boundary to end the over.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes full and lands it around middle and off, Ollie Pope with delicate hands pushes it to mid off.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Gets the line a touch closer to the off stump and on a length, Ollie Pope rocks back and cuts it well but still fails to find the gap.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a length, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it hard but straight to backward point.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Continues to bowl it straight but angles this one inform wider of the crease, Ollie Pope clips this to mid-wicket again.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ollie Pope flicks it straight to the man at mid-wicket.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Was that a chance? Did that carry? Yes, it certainly did. Alick Athanaze puts it down again!
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Tighter line as this one zips through, on a back of a length, on off, Harry Brook watchfully leaves it alone.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, ! On another day, that would have crashed onto the stumps! Ollie Pope is living a charmed life here.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, A bit fuller this time, on off, Ollie Pope lunges and times the drive to mid off.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Good shot but equally well fielded!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Make that a hat-trick of fours! A nothing delivery by Joseph as this is short but no real pace or bounce on it to trouble the batter. Harry Brook gets his weight on the back foot and glides it between gully and backward point for four more runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Class written all over this one!
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Shot! Hit with real authority! Joseph errs in line as he serves it wide outside off, on a length, Harry Brook frees his arms and cracks the drive through covers for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Oh, what happened there?
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the hard length, over middle, Ollie Pope swivels and gets on top of the bounce to pull it to deep backward square leg for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, On a back of a length, on off, Harry Brook hangs back and dabs it towards point.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, Wide!
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, At the stumps, on a good length, Harry Brook gets behind the line of the ball and blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, Four!
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, ! Nowhere in control and Brook gets lucky!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Poor delivery and duly punished!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a back of a length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and punches it past backward point for a couple of runs.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Jason Holder drops this one at the second slip!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands this on a good length just around off, Ollie Pope dabs it back onto the deck.Â
Shamar Joseph to Harry Brook, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, A beauty to end the over! Hits the deck hard on a shorter length just outside off. The ball just kicks off the deck nad nips past the outside edge as Ollie Pope looks to block it with a straight bat.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Bangs it into the surface on a shorter length and outside off, Ollie Pope with an extended arm cuts it hard but finds the man at backward point.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, 1 run.
Harry Brook walks out to bat at number 5 for England.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, ! c Alzarri Joseph b Jayden Seales.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Oh, my! This has missed everything!
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, No run.
Halt in play. Kraigg Brathwaite is upset with the ball and asks the umpire for a change of ball. The umpire pulls out the measuring gauge and the ball doesn't get through. Which means, a new ball will be brought into the play. Right then, we are now good to resume!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Joseph steams in and hurls it on a length, on off, Ollie Pope shows the full face of the bat and times the drive straight back at the bowler. Shamar Joseph gets his right hand low in his follow through and takes the sting out of the ball as it dribbles back towards the stumps at the bowling end.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Gets it through!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, A bit fuller by Joseph, on off, Ollie Pope presents a solid front foot defence back to the bowler.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Beaten! Width on offer by Joseph on off, short in length, Ollie Pope's eyes light up as he throws his hands at the delivery but connects with thin air. A loose shot by Pope and he is lucky not to nick this one behind.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Angling in a touch, on a hard length, around off, Joe Root gets on his toes nicely to ride the bounce and punches it to the right of point for a single.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Fuller by Seales, in the corridor of off, Joe Root gives the bowler the charge to get momentum into the shot. Drives it along the ground to mid off.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Keeps it just outside off, on a short of a good length, Joe Root goes back in his crease and stabs it down the deck.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Much better by Seales as this is on a back of a length, on off, Joe Root hangs back and guides it on the bounce to gully.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
It will be Jayden Seales (5-1-34-0)Â to bowl from the other end.
Shamar Joseph to Joe Root, Goes full this time does Joseph, on the sixth stump line, Joe Root gets on the front foot and defends it right under his eyeline.
Shamar Joseph to Joe Root, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On the off pole line, on a length, Ollie Pope is unable to transfer his weight on the front foot to get the drive away and pats it to mid off.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Much fuller and slanting in, on off, Ollie Pope looks to play it with a straight bat but plays it a bit early and mistimes the shot past the bowler
We are back with action heading into the second session! The two umpires are out in the middle and the West Indies are spreading out to take the field. Ollie Pope and Joe Root stride out to resume their stay at the crease. It will be Shamar Joseph to start this session with the ball in hand. Away we go..
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Starts from over the wicket and goes wide of the crease straight away Serves it on a back of a length, outside off, Ollie Pope hangs back and extends his hands to dab it to point.
... DAY 1, SESSION 2 ...
Had Alick Athanaze held onto Pope's catch at the stroke of Lunch, it would've been a perfect comeback from West Indies after a stellar England show. Nevertheless, the West Indies bowlers will need to regroup and devise new strategies to exert pressure on this potent English batting lineup, especially with the wicket looking to be a belter to bat on. The first session saw an intriguing unfold of events, and the enticing second session will resume in about 40 minutes, at precisely 6.10 pm IST (12.
West Indies, having won the toss and opted to bowl, came out with fiery intent. Alzarri Joseph knocked out Zak Crawley in the very first over. However, the momentum swiftly shifted as Jayden Seales conceded 19 runs in the second over, igniting an onslaught that left the bowlers scrambling for answers. The Drinks break provided a brief respite, allowing Shamar Joseph and spinner Kevin Sinclair to step in and stem the flow of runs. This tighter bowling eventually resulted in a crucial wicket, with
SESSION SUMMARY - 134 Runs, 26 Overs, 2 Wickets. It has been an entertaining first session as England head into lunch as the happier side. Despite an early setback with Zak Crawley departing without adding any score to the board, Ben Duckett stepped up and altered the course of play with his exquisite timing and shot-making. His flurry of boundaries put the West Indies bowlers under pressure, causing them to miss their marks and deliver loose balls that both Duckett and Ollie Pope eagerly ca
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A bit fuller, on off and the ball stays a bit low, Joe Root stays low with the bounce and keeps it out with a straight bat. That will be LUNCH on DAY 1!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, At 135 kph, on a hard length, on off, Ollie Pope gets right behind the line of the ball and blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Tailing in a touch, on off, on a length, Ollie Pope shapes up for the drive but the ball nips back in, resulting in Pope getting it off the inner half of the bat and it goes back to the bowler.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a back of a length, a hint of away movement, on off, Ollie Pope stays back and pushes it to cover.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, This is on a hard length, over off, Joe Root gets on his toes and defends it on the off side. Last over before Lunch coming up.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, ! Short and punished! Joseph tries to go short but this is not short enough, outside off, Joe Root has to wait a bit for the ball to arrive due to the slowness of the surface before pulling it in front of square on the leg side for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Fuller and zoning in on the stumps, Ollie Pope gets his bat in front of the pads and clips it past mid-wicket for a run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a back of a length, over middle, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and tucks it to mid-wicket.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, ! Lovely shot! Seales overcooks as he serves a juicy half volley, on middle, Joe Root stays balanced in the crease and clips it through mid-wicket. Root gets his first boundary after 16 balls.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, At 135 kph, on off, on a length, Joe Root tries to put Seales off his stump-to-stump line by walking across early but Seales holds his line. Root closes the bat face early and gets a soft leading edge that dribbles past the bowler.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Touch fuller but continues to attack the stumps does Seales, Joe Root pats it back to the bowler from the crease.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Quick single taken! Fired in, on a good length, on middle, Ollie Pope tucks it to the right of mid on and scampers across for a quick run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Attacks the off pole, on a good length, Ollie Pope covers the line of the ball and defends it out with a straight bat.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Goes full but down leg, Ollie Pope gets inside the line to tickle it fine but misses.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, Too straight on the pads, on a length, Joe Root flicks it away off his pads to the left of fine leg for a couple of runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, On a back of a length, on middle, Joe Root hangs back and nudges it to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, Joseph opens Root up with this one!
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, On a nagging length, on off, the ball keeps a bit low but Joe Root adjusts to the bounce and blocks it out.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Full but sliding on the pads, Ollie Pope helps it down to fine leg for a single.
Change?
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A maiden by Seales to start his new spell! Around the off pole, on a good length, the ball holds its line a bit, Joe Root covers the line of the ball and defends it on the off side.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, In that corridor of off, on a nagging length, not close to make Root play as he lets it go.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, No run.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Beauty! Seales goes full at 137 kph with an upright seam, around off, Joe Root is caught on the crease as he looks to push it down the ground with a straight bat. The ball pitches and nips away to go past the outside edge.
Jayden Seales (2-0-28-0) comes back into the attack.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A bit closer this time, on a short of a length, left alone again by Root.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Starts from over the wicket, on a good length, shaping away a touch, outside off, Joe Root leaves the ball alone.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Back on it for the final delivery! Serves it on a good length, just outside off, Ollie Pope defends it right under his eyeliner. With 20 minutes to go for Lunch, England are 118/2.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Oh, hello! Where did that come from?
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Nicely done! Fractionally short, outside off, Ollie Pope is quick to hop back and get into the position. Drags the pull through square leg for a boundary.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Fuller in length at 139 kph, outside off, Ollie Pope leans on and drives it straight to cover. Shamar Joseph and West Indies won't mind Pope playing away from his body.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angling in at the pads, on a length, Ollie Pope nudges it off his pads but straight to mid-wicket.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Sharp stop! On a back of a length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and runs it on the bounce towards gully where Alick Athanaze flies to his right to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Sinclair changes his angle of attack as he comes from around the wicket and drifts it away, on middle, full in length, Ollie Pope clips it off the front foot to mid-wicket where the fielder misfields and concedes a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Joe Root, Short and on off, Joe Root gets on the back foot and steers it behind backward point. Root gets off the mark with a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Joe Root, Fires it full and outside off, Joe Root rocks back and blocks it to the off side.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Joe Root walks out to bat at number 4 for England.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! EDGED AND TAKEN! Shamar Joseph gets the reward for his persistence!
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Hits the deck hard, over off, the ball straightens a bit off the deck, Ben Duckett is equal to the task as he blocks it out on the leg side.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! Slightest of width and Ben Duckett is all over it!
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, This is on a short of a good length, angling in, on off, Ben Duckett does not have much room to work with and he can only stab it down the deck.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Pulls the length back slightly and keeps it in the corridor of uncertainty on off, Ben Duckett covers the line of the ball and defends it on the off side.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Joseph steams in from around the wicket for the left-hander, full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it with a straight bat towards mid off.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Keeps it full and on the off pole, Ben Duckett eases it down to long off and picks up a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, ! Risky but effective! Looped up, on a fullish length, on off, Ben Duckett gets a big stride in as he reaches out and takes it on the full. Sweeps it all along the ground and beats Jayden Seales in the deep who slid to his right but failed to cut it off. The 100-run stand comes up between these two batters!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Speared in, full and on middle, blocked out off the front foot by Ben Duckett.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Drifting in, full and on middle, Ben Duckett drives it down the deck where Sinclair dives to his right to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Fired in at 97 kph, full and on middle, Ollie Pope gets on the front foot and wrists it to deep square leg for one.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pope connects the pull shot this time! Shamar digs it in short, on off, Ollie Pope hangs back and rides the bounce nicely to pull it to deep square leg for a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Slants it in, on off, on a good length, Ollie Pope extends his hands and times the drive well but picks out the man at cover.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Missed out! On a length, straying on the pads, Ollie Pope tries to help it away off his pads but misses and wears it on the front pad.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a good length, but not close enough to make the batter play. Left alone outside off by Pope.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Oh, that whizzed under the bat!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Play and a miss! At 139 kph, zipping through, on a shortish length, outside off, Ollie Pope swivels to drag the pull in front of square on the leg side but misses as the ball goes under the bat.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Slips it in full and on middle, Ben Duckett hangs back and works it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drifting away a touch with the breeze, full and outside off, Ollie Pope gets a good stride in and glides it behind square on the off side for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Gives the ball air nicely, full and on middle, Ollie Pope lunges and blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Loops it up, full and on middle, Ollie Pope presses forward and nudges it past mid-wicket for a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, At the stumps, on a good length, Ollie Pope clips this one off the stumps towards deep backward square leg and retains the strike with a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, There's that head of Pope falling towards the off side, which has many times led to his downfall!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pope didn't hold back there, did he? Joseph errs in line as he offers width on off, on a length, Ollie Pope's eyes light up as he throws hands at the delivery to thrash it through the off side but connects with thin air.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pitches it right up does Joseph, a juicy half volley, on off, Ollie Pope cracks the drive but can't get it past cover.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Just a push and it fetches Ollie Pope a couple of runs! Shaping away, on a good length, on off, Ollie Pope lets the ball come to him and just presents a straight bat. Pats it back past the bowler for two runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Fuller and quicker, drifting in on the pads, Ben Duckett misses the flick shot. The ball comes off his pads and it is taken low at short leg. A tidy start by Kevin Sinclair, just 2 runs off it.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Darts it in from around the wicket to the left-hander, short in length, on middle and leg, Ben Duckett whips it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Floats it up, slower and fuller, on middle, knocked down to long on for a single by Pope.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, At 93 kph, on a nagging length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on the back foot and pats it to point.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, This goes straight on, short and on off, Ollie Pope rocks back and punches it towards the non-striker. Kevin Sinclair moves to his right quickly to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Tosses it up, full and on the pads, Ben Duckett clips it through square leg and gets to the other end.
First signs of spin as Kevin Sinclair is introduced into the attack.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angling in again from over the wicket, on a short of a good length, on off, Ollie Pope stabs it down on the off side. A maiden to start the second hour of the first session!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, A mix-up but no harm done!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, And again! Banged on a hard length, around off, Ollie Pope has a feel for it again as he looks to play it away from his body behind square on the off side. Gets taken aback as the ball climbs on him and zips past the bat. Encouraging signs for Shamar Joseph.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and gets a hint of away movement, on a length, in the channel on off, Ollie Pope watchfully leaves the ball alone.
Drinks break! Well, if you're a fan of 'Bazball' and missed your dose in the first Test, you'll be pretty happy with what has transpired so far. The runs have come thick and fast for England after the loss of Zak Crawley, with Ben Duckett being the aggressor of the two batters. Jayden Seales has been all over the place with his lines and lengths as has Alzarri Joseph since the first over, resulting in boundaries being leaked from both ends. Jason Holder has comparatively been better but on wha
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Bowls it outside off and on a length, Ben Duckett pushes it straight into the hands of the fielder at short cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Another fuller length-delivery on off, Ben Duckett times his cut well but finds the fielder at cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Full and outside off, Ben Duckett with soft hands drives it to mid off.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Keeps it away from the batter and lands it well outside off, on a length, Ben Duckett leaves it alone.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Takes some pace off and bowls it full, outside off, Ben Duckett looks to drive this one too but misses!
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! Comes from around the wicket and serves a fuller-length delivery with too much width outside off, Ben Duckett gets low in his stance and times his drive through covers for a boundary.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, A tad fuller in length and onto the pads, Ben Duckett clips it behind the square of the wicket on the leg side for a single to end the over. He will retain the strike for the next over!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Slants this one on a fuller length into the stumps, Ollie Pope drives it off the inner half of the bat towards mid on for just a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Cuts it through with extreme precision! On a length and on top of off, Ollie Pope waits deep in the crease and cuts it past gully for a boundary.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Attacks the stumps on a good length, Ollie Pope blocks it to mid on.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph is introduced into the attack now, replacing Alzarri Joseph.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Starts from over the wicket and hits the perfect length, just outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to backward point.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Another nice looking shot but will not fetch him any runs! Full and slanting into the stumps, Ben Duckett gets his front leg out and drives it well but finds the fielder at mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, On a length, outside off, Ben Duckett cuts it to backward point.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, hits the good length and gets the ball to come in with the angle, Ben Duckett looks to play it across the line but gets an outside edge towards covers.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Angles it in, around middle and leg and on a length, Ollie Pope tucks it to mid on for a single.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Full and on off, Ben Duckett takes a good stride out and drives it past cover for three good runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! FIFTY for Ben Duckett off just 32 deliveries! Jason Holder bowls this outside off and on a shorter length, Ben Duckett opens his bat face enough and cuts this one through the gap between gully and point for four runs. Third fastest fifty for England in Test cricket with the fastest being off 28 balls by Ian Botham.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, On a length, into the pads, Ben Duckett looks to flick it away fine but gets beaten. The ball clips his front pad and rolls in front of square leg. The batters cross for a leg bye!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Digs it on a shorter length over middle and off, Ben Duckett swivels across and looks to pull but the ball just climbs on his as it shoots off the deck and goes through to the keeper.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to the left of backward point who does well in stopping the ball and keeping it down to just a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Bangs it on a nagging length, on top of off, Ollie Pope judges the length right and leaves it alone.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in on a length and around the pads, Ollie Pope flicks it to mid-wicket.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! Even the slightest of errors in line and lengths are proving to be costly for West Indies! Too full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it beautifully past mid on for a boundary to end the over.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! A loosener from Jason Holder and Ben Duckett cashes in! Too full and outside off, Ben Duckett crisps his drive through cover for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Attacks the pads on a length, Ben Duckett gets his bat ahead and blocks it out to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, At 128kph, bowls it full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it to mid off.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Angles it across on a good length and on top of off, Ben Duckett rocks back and cuts it in front of backward point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope blocks it in front of covers. A good couple of overs from the West Indies to stem the flow of runs!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in, on a good length around middle and leg, Ollie Pope tucks it straight to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, NO BALL! Alzarri Joseph has overstepped! A length-delivery outside off, Ben Duckett just cuts it in front of covers and gets a quick single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Bowls it fuller and continues to target outside off, Ben Duckett just blocks it in front of mid off.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Hits the deck on a shorter length just outside off, Ben Duckett cuts it to backward point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Fuller this time around off, Ben Duckett pushes it to mid off.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Angles this across on a good length around that fifth stump line, Ben Duckett with an angled bat slaps it hard but finds the man at backward point.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, A good over for Jason Holder and West Indies! Just one run off it! Holder bowls it full and outside off, Ollie Pope with delicate hands blocks it to gully.Â
-
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ollie Pope pushes it to mid on this time.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, At 126 kph, lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope leaves this one alone for the keeper to collect.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Starts from over the wicket and goes full, just outside off, Ben Duckett drives it past point for a single.Â
Bowling change? Yes, Jason Holder comes into the attack as the first change.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the good length on off, Ollie Pope eases to covers.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Fractionnaly fuller this time on middle and leg, Ben Duckett pulls it to deep backward square leg for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! Another one! Short of a length angled into the batter, Ben Duckett slaps it through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Comes from around the wicket and bowls it on a length around middle and off, Ben Duckett looks to drive it but mistimes it to back to the bowler.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Four!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Digs it too short on middle and leg, Ben Duckett pulls it all along the ground to deep backward square leg for a brace.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Angles it into the left-hander on a length and into the pads, Ben Duckett tucks it to deep square leg for a single. 9 runs come of this over and England are 44/1 at the end of 4!
In case you missed it, the Pavilion end of Trent Bridge was renamed in honour of former England fast bowler and Nottingham-born Stuart Broad before the start of the play.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Guided it well! On a shorter length outside off, Ben Duckett waits back and steers it well past gully for a boundary.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Falling just short of the keeper! On a length, outside off inviting the batter to to cut. Ben Duckett with not much of foot movement looks to slash at it and gets a thin outside edge falling short of the wicketkeeper.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! The third consecutive boundary for England! Jayden Seales bangs it on a shorter length but gives width outside off, Ben Duckett rocks back and just times his cut past point for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Timed to perfection! On a good length angled into the pads, Ollie Pope brings his bottom hand into play and flicks it beautifully to the left of square leg for another boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Runs flowing thick and fast for England since that first over! This is short of a length and outside off, Ollie Pope quickly transfers his weight back and cuts it well past gully for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a length and into the pads, Ollie Pope tucks it with soft hands towards deep square leg and gets two more runs.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, That a top delivery! Lands it on a nagging length around off and gets the ball to move away a touch as Ollie Pope looks to poke at it. The ball beats the outside edge!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in on a fuller length but down leg.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, A good delivery now after 5 bad ones! Hits the deck hard around off and gets the ball to shape away a bit, Ben Duckett gets his bat high and blocks it inside the line as the ball zips through to the keeper.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Comes from around the wicket but it doesn't change the outcome for Jayden Seales as Ben Duckett sends it to the boundary on the other side! Too full and angling into the stumps, Ben Duckett flicks it beautifully past mid-wicket for a boundary.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Easy pickings! Jayden Seales drags the length short but offers a lot of width outside off. Ben Duckett rocks back in a flash and cuts it through point this time for back-to-back boundaries.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Not the ideal start from Jayden Seales as he offers a freebie to Ben Duckett who gets off the mark in some style. Too full and outside off, Duckett just leans on it and crisps his drive through covers for a boundary.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, WIDE! Comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and well outside off for a wide.Â
Who will operate from the other end?
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Top, top shot to get things underway for England and Ollie Pope! Too full this time from Alzarri Joseph, onto the stumps, Ollie Pope times his straight drive to perfection sending the ball past mid on for a nice-looking boundary. England at 4/1 after the first over!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the perfect length around that off-stump line, Ollie Pope pushes it back to the bowler.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the deck hard and gets the ball to bounce around middle, Ollie Pope covers the line and tucks it to short mid-wicket.
Ollie Pope walks in at number 3.
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, CAUGHT! What a perfect start this has been for West Indies! Zak Crawley has to walk back for a duck!
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, Bangs it into the surface on a shorter length and angling it into the right-hander on middle and leg, Zak Crawley gets his bat high and blocks it out, awkwardly!
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, No run.
All in readiness for the action to commence on the first morning of the 2nd Test. The sun is shining its full glory as the two umpires make their way out to the middle. West Indies are in a huddle near the ropes before taking their places on the field. It will be the left-hand right-hand combination of Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley to open the innings for England.
JUST IN - West Indies have been forced to make a late change to their playing XI announced yesterday. Gudakesh Motie woke up feeling unwell and he will be replaced by Kevin Sinclair. This could prove to be a blessing in disguise for the visitors as Sinclair has the batting credentials to go with his off spin, adding depth to their batting unit.
West Indies (Playing XI) - Kraigg Brathwaite (C), Mikyle Louis, Kirk Mckenzie, Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Jason Holder, Joshua Da Silva (WK), Alzarri Joseph, Kevin Sinclair (In for Gudakesh Motie), Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales.
England (Playing XI) - Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (WK), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, Shoaib Bashir.
TOSS - The coin toss lands in the favour of West Indies and they have opted to BOWL first.
And with that, we end our discussion for the time being. The one-hour sermon is completed and it is time to take a pause. No no, not from the game - but from our discussions. Because the action is about to begin. And when there is action happening out there in the middle, let that speak for itself. Hardly a cloud is seen in the sky as Ben Stokes leads his side out to the middle. Excellent crowd with the first three days being sold out, informed by Nasser Hussain on air. No Jimmy Anderson, remem
Normally, in England, pitches tend to quicken from Day 2. And the fast bowlers usually come to the party, especially on the second day. Then, the pitch slowly starts to flatten out and perhaps take some turn come Days 4 and 5. So the best batting conditions would be from today onwards and the tourists have been given another opportunity - get the best of batting conditions and make use of the willow. Yes, the opposition has got 400-plus, but thanks to their batting approach, don't you have quali
Given that we always like to take detours, let's take a turn now. We mentioned about a legend so shall talk a bit about his department. Bowling. More prominently, spin. Whether it was Shamar Joseph's discomfort or whether it was the fact that the second new ball was around the corner and the quicks needed to be rested - Kraigg Brathwaite turned to spin seriously around the 70-over mark and by the end of the day, 4 wickets had gone to the tweakers - 2 apiece to Kevin Sinclair and Kavem Hodge. S
We now cast a look at the rest of the batters and barring Stokes and Crawley, everyone else got in and got out. It is understood that is, in essence, what Bazball implies - keep attacking. But the last time when I checked the rule book, nowhere was it mentioned that a batting side should bat for only one day in a Test. So why the hurry? If batters are going to come in, get set and then throw it away, how good will it do for a viewer? Wasn't this same thing exposed first by Australia and then, br
For people following English cricket, this would not be the first time Ollie Pope has been compared to an Ian Bell or Joe Root. That's primarily because of the way he bats, with technique extremely solid and footwork totally assured. On paper. In reality, he has been just a prolonged advert of what big is to come. But for how long will the advert last and people wait for the actual movie? In 79 innings in Tests, Pope has crossed the 50-mark 18 times - that's roughly one every 4-5 innings. But
It was another of many, not only for West Indies, but for England as well. We mentioned about Ollie Pope and for a reason. Not just because of his 121, but because the first 50-odd runs never gave any assurance of him being set at the crease. He was dropped twice, on either side of the Lunch break and he was more than happy to make the Windies pay. That's one of many for West Indies - try and look competitive numerous times in Tests, only to kick opportunities with both feet and letting the oppo
No disrespect at all to any English fan. The cricket played by their team has been supreme with their superior skills clearly visible on display. But as any neutral cricket fan would wish, a CONTEST is what is anticipated when a fixture is announced. Test cricket is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport as it tests the players' resolve, again and again. And when that happens and players pass that test, it brings a joy to watch for a viewer. But when there is barely a test for someone and th
Sadly, the second Test has also begun on the same note. Not because England have raked 400-plus in a day. But because we are not sure whether there was any plan in place by the West Indies in their bowling. And if there was any, it was clearly not followed. The first new ball was wasted, being sprayed on both sides of the wicket, with the lengths not being consistent and England capitalized. In fact, the visitors would have totally forgotten that they had Zak Crawley caught in the slip cordon o
For all those who could not catch the action on Day 1 of the second Test, it was purely action packed, with 416 runs scored at around 4.7 an over, with 10 wickets falling. And to add, 90 overs were not even bowled. West Indies chose to bowl on what teams normally do in English conditions, with the pitch predicted to get better on subsequent days. But then, England chose to attack and not only did they attack the ball, they attacked the mindset and soul of the visitors. One look at the scorecard
Watch out! The next season of your favourite web series is set to release on so and so date. I am sure, in this digital age of OTT platforms, many of us would have already got hooked onto the habit of watching web series and what not on the digital platform. Seems like Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes have taken an inspiration from the same. After Bazball was heavily criticized in India, that method seemingly took a break in the first Test at Lord's. But come the second Test, it is back. And back
... DAY 2 ...
England will aim to come out all guns blazing early on Day 2, looking to press their dominance with the ball. West Indies will need to survive that crucial first hour, where the ball is likely to do most of the talking, and then focus on stitching together small partnerships to give themselves a chance for a strong comeback in this Test.
Right then, that's a wrap for Day 1, with England firmly in the driver's seat thanks to some extraordinary batting performances. West Indies will be hoping for a stronger start on Day 2 as they look to mount a comeback. Join us for all the action on Day 2, starting at 3.30 pm IST (10 am GMT). Until then, cheers and goodbye!
In the final session, West Indies tightened their approach, securing the prized wicket of Ollie Pope. However, they struggled to capitalize on the breakthrough, allowing Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith to form another 50+ partnership. Stokes eventually fell for a well-compiled 69. The spinners then regained some control, with Kavem Hodge claiming two wickets to expose the tail. Despite some resistance from Mark Wood and Chris Woakes, West Indies wrapped things up efficiently, claiming all remainin
In the second session, West Indies began with tight bowling that resulted in the dismissal of Joe Root. However, they struggled to maintain momentum as their bowlers faltered, compounded by a couple of missed opportunities in the field. After a promising start, Harry Brook fell quickly, but Ollie Pope capitalized on being dropped twice to notch up a century, ultimately closing the session in England's favour.
This has been a fantastic end to the day's play as England firmly grasp control of the second Test match ending their first innings with 416 runs on the board at the end of Day 1. West Indies after a tough day did well in this final session to pull things back and wrap this English side up. In the final session, 35.3 overs saw 157 runs scored, but more importantly for West Indies, they managed to claim 6 crucial wickets.
England seized control of the game in the very first session despite an early setback in the opening over. Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope capitalized on loose deliveries from the West Indies bowlers, laying a solid foundation before Duckett's dismissal. Joe Root then partnered with Ollie Pope to guide the team safely to Lunch with 134 runs on the board. West Indies managed to tighten their bowling towards the end of the session, gaining some momentum heading into the break.
Alzarri Joseph to Shoaib Bashir, ! CAUGHT! The outside edge goes to hand this time! Alzarri Joseph wraps up the England innings! Alzarri Joseph hurls it in, on a nagging length, on off, Shoaib Bashir stays on the back foot and hops to get on top of the bounce. Looks to defend it out with a straight bat but gets an outside edge again. It goes low but straight into the hands of second slip where Jason Holder is expecting the edge and he stays low to grab it low in front.
Alzarri Joseph to Shoaib Bashir, ! Edged away! Alzarri Joseph delivers it on a hard length, tighter line, on off and middle, Shoaib Bashir gets on his toes and shows the full face of the bat to cover the line of the ball. Gets an outside edge that flies towards gully and it beats Alick Athanaze to his right for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, NO BALL! Joseph serves it full this time, around off, Mark Wood backs away to access the off side and has to reach out to drive it to deep point for a single. Alzarri Joseph has overstepped!
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, Joseph bends his back and digs it in short, outside off, Mark Wood is happy to let that one go behind to the keeper.
Alzarri Joseph will bowl the final over of the day.Â
Jayden Seales to Mark Wood, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Mark Wood, Big swing and a miss! Short of a length and zoning in, around middle and leg, Mark Wood clears his front leg and leaves nothing in the tank as he swings to go back over the bowler's head but misses and gets beaten on the inside edge.
Jayden Seales to Shoaib Bashir, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Shoaib Bashir, No run.
Shoaib Bashir will be the last man to walk in for England.
Jayden Seales to Chris Woakes, ! EDGED AND GONE! Jayden Seales gets his line and length right this time and he gets the reward!
Jayden Seales to Chris Woakes, ! Neatly done! Jayden Seales sprays it on the pads and it is full in length, Chris Woakes stays balanced in the crease and with a still head, clips it through mid-wicket for a boundary.
Jayden Seales (14-1-84-1)Â to share the new ball from the other end.
Alzarri Joseph to Mark Wood, Joseph goes slightly wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and spears it in, full and at the pads, Mark Wood clips it nicely but straight to mid on.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, Joseph goes slightly fuller this time, on off, Chris Woakes stays rooted in the crease and dabs it past backward point for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, At 142 kph, on a good length by Joseph, on off, Chris Woakes gets his bat out in front of his body to keep it out the ball climbs onto him off the deck and hits him high on the bat.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, Honing in at the stumps, on a length, Chris Woakes covers the line of the ball and defends it out on the off side.
Right then, West Indies have finally opted to take the new ball. It will be Alzarri Joseph to have the first bite at this second new ball.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Chris Woakes, ! Too straight and these are easy pickings!
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Hodge attacks the stumps with a full delivery, Chris Woakes knocks it down to long on for one as England move to 397.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Fuller in length, on off, Mark Wood eases it to long off and gets to the other end.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Hodge serves it flat and short, over middle, Mark Wood punches it back to Hodge.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, There's that tempter by Hodge, looped up, full and wide on off, Mark Wood is happy to let that one go.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Too straight, full and on the pads by Hodge, Chris Woakes tickles it fine towards the fine leg fence for a couple of runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Fuller this time by Sinclair, on off and middle, Mark Wood drives it straight back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Keeps it flat and short, on middle and leg, Mark Wood goes back in his crease and defends it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Sinclair bowls it short, on middle, Chris Woakes rocks back and nurdles it past square leg for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, ! Good use of the feet! Sinclair floats it up, full and on off, Chris Woakes shimmies down the track and times the drive to the right of Jason Holder at mid off for a boundary.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Drops it short now, on off, Chris Woakes gets on the back foot and slaps it past point for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Pushes it through this time, on off, Mark Wood knocks it down to long off for a single with a straight bat.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Nicely bowled! Slows it up and keeps it away from the batter's reach, outside off, fuller as well, Mark Wood reaches out but fails to connect.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, 2 runs.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, This is flat and short, at the stumps, Chris Woakes gets on one knee and paddles it over the keeper for a couple of runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tosses it up, full and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to deep cover for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Fuller in length and on off, Chris Woakes pushes it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tossed up, on off, Chris Woakes gets a good stride out before blocking it right under his eyes.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Bowls it full and on the off stump line, Mark Wood drives it to cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, 3 runs.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Tosses this one up outside off, Mark Wood cuts it to backward point.Â
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Bowls it full and on off, Mark Wood drives it down to mid off.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, Has that been grassed?
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, No run.
The new ball is now due for West Indies! Will they go for it right away?
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Short and on off, Mark Wood punches it down to long off for one.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, Floats it up, full and on off, Mark Wood drills it hard but straight to cover.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Mark Wood, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Floated up, full and at the stumps, Chris Woakes blocks it out down the deck.
Kevin Sinclair to Mark Wood, 1 run.
Mark Wood walks out to bat at number 10 for England.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, ! c Kavem Hodge b Kevin Sinclair.
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Gus Atkinson, Loops this one up on a fuller length and on off, Gus Atkinson blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Fuller and on middle and leg, Chris Woakes flicks it to square leg for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Gus Atkinson, No run.
Is that out? There has been an umpire's review for Run-out at the bowler's end.Â
Kavem Hodge to Gus Atkinson, Fires this one short and drifting into middle and leg, Gus Atkinson rocks back and trickles it down to fine leg for a couple to get off the mark.Â
Gus Atkinson walks out to bat at number 9 for England.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! c Jason Holder b Kavem Hodge.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! Clean strike!
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Full and sliding on, middle, Jamie Smith defends it out on the leg side.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Drops it short and on off, Chris Woakes punches it down to long off for one.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Beaten!
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Full and on middle, Jamie Smith lunges and knocks it to the right of the bowler but can't get it past the man at short mid on.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Short and on middle, punched off the back toot to long on for one by Woakes.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, Tossed up around off, Chris Woakes taps it to the fielder at cover.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Chris Woakes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Goes full and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to deep cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Darts this one full and into the stumps, Chris Woakes gets his bat down and jams it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Fuller and quicker, on off, Chris Woakes works it to cover again.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Coming in with the angle, full and on off, Chris Woakes pushes it to cover.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Lands it full again, on off and middle, Chris Woakes gets on the front foot to defend.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Attacks the stumps, on a nagging length, Jamie Smith gets right behind the line of the ball and pushes it to mid on.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, ! Creamed away!
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Fuller and wide on off, Jamie Smith reaches out and slices it past backward point for a couple of runs.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, That could have so nearly trickled back onto the stumps! Full and slanting in from over the wicket, on middle and leg, Jamie Smith walks right across his stumps and lifts his back leg to play the flick shot but misses.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Angling in, on a nagging length, around off, Chris Woakes plays it right under his eyeline as he steers it past gully for a single. The 350 comes up for England!
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Darted in, short and at the stumps, Jamie Smith stays back and blocks it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Pulls the length back and spears it in, outside off, Chris Woakes hangs back and dabs it square of the wicket on the off side for one.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Slows it up and gets a bit of away turn, full and just outside off, Jamie Smith plays it with the turn to deep cover for a run.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Fired in, fuller and on off, Chris Woakes drives it to the right of the diving cover fielder for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, A bit fuller and at the stumps, Chris Woakes lunges and pats it back to the bowler.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Speared in, on a nagging length, on middle, Chris Woakes defends it off the front foot.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, In the channel on off, on a good length, Jamie Smith does not quite get behind the line of the ball and extends his hands to steer it along the ground towards gully.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Holder goes slightly wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and delivers it on a back of a length, over the off pole, Jamie Smith gets on his toes and keeps it out on the off side.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Hurls it on a back of a length, on middle, Chris Woakes hops back and nudges it to deep mid-wicket and gets to the other end.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Beaten! This comes in with the angle, on a good length, just outside off, Chris Woakes gets on the front foot to defend it out but plays inside the line of the ball and gets beaten on the outside edge.
Jason Holder to Chris Woakes, Hooping back in from a wide angle, full and on off, Chris Woakes gets his bat out in front of the pads and plays it back to the bowler.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Short and wide on off, at 128 kph, Jamie Smith hangs back and frees his arms to cut it through point for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Drops it short again, on off, Jamie Smith stands tall and punches it to deep cover to keep the strike with a single. End of a successful over for Kavem Hodge and West Indies.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Drags the length back and attacks the stumps, Jamie Smith gets on the back foot and keeps it out.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Floated up, full and on off, Chris Woakes presses forward and drives it past cover for a single to get off the mark.
Kavem Hodge to Chris Woakes, Angling in from around the wicket, full and on middle, Chris Woakes blocks it out off the front foot.
Chris Woakes walks out to bat at number 8 for England.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, ! STRAIGHT TO THE FIELDER! Maiden Test wicket for Kavem Hodge and it is the big one of Ben Stokes! The English skipper could not have picked the fielder out there in the deep any better.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Drifts it in, full from around the wicket, on middle, Ben Stokes clips it straight to mid-wicket.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Length delivery, coming back in, outside off, Jamie Smith shuffles across and comes down the track to push it back to the bowler.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, A bit fuller at 128 kph, outside off, Jamie Smith makes a late decision to glide it along the ground to gully.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Goes wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle, on a length, tailing in, on off, Jamie Smith covers the line of the ball and stabs it down the deck.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Angling in from over the wicket, on a back of a length, on off, Jamie Smith hops back and blocks it out with a straight bat as the ball pops up a bit off the deck.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and hits the deck hard, over off, Ben Stokes waits on the back foot and dabs it to deep point for a single.
Drinks break! England have managed to add 82 runs in the first hour after Tea, taking their total to 341. Both Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith have largely been untroubled and are ticking along nicely. West Indies are yet to show any real signs of aggression, despite taking wickets intermittently. This lack of sustained pressure is an issue they need to address promptly heading into this final hour of play on Day 1.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, ! Sheer power behind that!
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Darts another one full and onto the stumps, Ben Stokes cuts it to deep cover for a single.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Shorter in length and on off, Ben Stokes makes room and cuts it to deep cover for a couple more.Â
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, On a length, into the stumps, Jamie Smith tucks it along the ground to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, On a length, just outside off, Ben Stokes cuts it to the right of deep point for a couple of runs. Also brings up the 50-run stand between these two.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, ! Nice shot! Holder digs it short outside off, Ben Stokes swivels and pulls it firmly through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Goes full and hurls it outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to covers.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and lands it on a good length, on off, Ben Stokes blocks it to covers.Â
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Quicker this time and flighted on a fuller length, on off, Jamie Smith defends it on the front foot.Â
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kavem Hodge to Jamie Smith, Switches to around the wicket and drags the length short and lands it around middle and leg, Jamie Smith tucks it away to deep square leg for a single.Â
Kavem Hodge to Ben Stokes, Starts from over the wicket and tosses it full on the stumps, Ben Stokes nudges it to long on for a single.
Change.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Bowls it straight and attacks the stumps, on a hard length, Jamie Smith is hurried a bit but does well to keep it out.Â
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, On a back of a length, over off, Jamie Smith dabs it down the deck.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Full and into the pads, Ben Stokes clips it to square leg.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, On a length, just outside off, Ben Stokes charges down the track and looks to go big over mid off but slices it to deep covers for a couple of runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Bowls this quicker and fuller into the pads, Ben Stokes is quick on getting back deep in the crease as he clips it down to fine leg for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on the stumps, Ben Stokes taps it to mid on.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Tosses this one up, outside off, Jamie Smith drives it straight to covers.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, With a flatter trajectory, bowls this one full and on off, Jamie Smith rocks back and punches it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Bowls a low full toss outside off, Jamie Smith drives it straight to the man at covers.Â
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, Fuller and outside off, Jamie Smith drives it well to deep point for a single.
Jason Holder to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Top running! Jason Holder bowls it with the angle coming in around middle and leg, Ben Stokes looks to block but gets an inside edge through his legs. Jamie Smith calls for the run as the folder from square leg charges in and throws a direct hit at the striker's end. Smith was well within the crease!
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, A tad shorter in length and outside off, Ben Stokes looks to cut it late but gets beaten on the outside edge with the extra bounce and pace behind it.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Comes from around the wicket and lands it on a good length, just outside off, Ben Stokes defends it to cover.
-
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Shorter and outside off, Ben Stokes hangs back and cuts it to deep point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, NO BALL! Kevin Sinclair oversteps this time. Bowls it full and on off, Ben Stokes drives it straight back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and slanting into middle and off, Ben Stokes blocks it right under his eyes.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller, on off, Ben Stokes makes room and pushes it to cover.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drags the length down over off, Ben Stokes cuts it to backward point who does well diving to his right to keep it down to just a dot!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller on the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it out on the backfoot.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, On a back of a length, on off, Jamie Smith punches it with a straight bat back tot he bowler who does well to get his right arm down on his follow-through to make a stop.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Lands it on a shorter length, outside off, Jamie Smith punches it to cover.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Goes full and outside off, Jamie Smith drives it with full control in the gap between cover and point. The fielder charges the ball towards the fence and flicks it back in time. The batters get three good runs off it.Â
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Comes from over the wicket and bangs the deck on a length, over the stumps, Jamie Smith opens up his stance and blocks it down the pitch.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drifiting in, full and at the stumps, Ben Stokes presses forward and works it straight to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Turning in a touch, fuller and on the pads, clipped straight to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Keeps it on a nagging length, on middle, Jamie Smith goes on the back foot and pats it back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Darts it in, flat and short, outside off, Ben Stokes rocks back and punches it in front of square on the off side for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Very full, on off, Ben Stokes firms the drive straight to a straightish short cover.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Four!
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, Attacks the stumps on a good length, Jamie Smith gets his bat ahead and stabs it down the deck.
Jayden Seales to Jamie Smith, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a length, outside off, Ben Stokes slashes it to deep backward point for a single.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Short and outside off, Ben Stokes slaps it to deep cover for a couple of runs.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Four!
Jayden Seales (12-1-69-1) is back for a burst.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Continues to keep it full and lands it around off, Jamie Smith drives it to mid off.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Full and outside off, Jamie Smith looks to slice it away but gets a thick outside edge to short third who makes a mess out of it allowing the batters two runs.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Angles this into the pads on a hard length, Jamie Smith hops back and tucks it to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a short of a length over middle, Ben Stokes pulls it to deep square leg for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Comes from over the wicket and hits the deck hard on a tight length into the bodyline, Ben Stokes gets cramped for room as he looks to flick it across the line and wears it on the pads.
Kevin Sinclair to Jamie Smith, Takes pace off and bowls it nice and full, on off, Jamie Smith blocks it back onto the deck.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Skids this one through on a fuller length and into the pads, Ben Stokes tucks it to mid-wicket for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Four!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on off, Ben Stokes gets a good stride out and pushes it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Flatter and fuller on off, Ben Stokes blocks it on the front foot.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Full and on off, Ben Stokes drops his bat with delicate hands and cuts it to deep backward point for a single to end the over.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, WIDE! Digs it short and down leg! Ben Stokes ducks just enough to leave this one alone.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Beautiful shot! On a back of a length over middle, Ben Stokes is quick on getting on the backfoot and pulls it through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a good length, over off, Ben Stokes punches it to covers.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, 1 run.
Alzarri Joseph to Jamie Smith, Follows up with a hard-length delivery, on off, Jamie Smith pushes it to covers.Â
Jamie Smith makes his way out to the centre.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! EDGED AND GONE! Alzarri Joseph gets the big, big wicket of Ollie Pope!Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Quicker this time, on a fuller length and on off, Ben Stokes drives it to short cover, yet gain.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Loops it full and into middle and off, Ben Stokes blocks it on the front foot.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Floated up, outside off, Ben Stokes frees his arms and drives it to deep cover for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a length, outside off, Ben Stokes opens the bat face and drives it to deep point for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a back of a length, around off, Ben Stokes slices it to point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Four!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No ball!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, At 139 kph, hurls it on a nagging length, angled across on middle and off, Ben Stokes hops back and dabs it out to the off side.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Slower through the air and on a fuller length around middle and leg, Ollie Pope clips it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and attacking the stumps, Ollie Pope digs it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drags the length short around off, Ollie Pope rocks back and cuts it to backward point.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Four!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to cover who throws a dive to his left only to get a hand to it as the batters scamper across for a single.
It will be spin in the form of Kevin Sinclair from the other end.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and on off, Ollie Pope drives it to long on for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, On a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes looks to cut it square on off but misses.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Two in the over for Ben Stokes! Alzarri Joseph digs it short and over middle, Ben Stokes swivels in the crease and pulls it all along the ground to deep backward square leg fence for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, Angles this across on a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes holds his bat high and makes the leave.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, ! Change of ends hasn't quite worked well as Alzarri Joseph bowls another freebie! Too full and outside off, asking to be hit. Ben Stokes leans on and drives it well past point for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Stokes, No run.
We are back.
⦠DAY 1, SESSION THREE ...
Having mentioned all of the above, West Indies need to believe that they can cause England to make mistakes. There have been a few flashy shots, a few streaky shots and the hosts have ridden their luck. There is experience in Pope and Stokes while Smith is in form, but that middle order still looks shaky. As Sir Geoffrey Boycott used to say - always look at the score with two wickets added to it and the game changes quickly.
You reap as you sow. We all know this proverb. West Indies are making a lifetime out of this. In almost every Test that they play, they give glimpses of their talent, only to put that into the bin by some carelessness. Even in this Test, in spite of the bowling being ordinary, the chances were created, only to be shelled. And add to that, Shamar Joseph's niggle doesn't help things. It seems like a long session is on the cards for the bowlers.
Ben Stokes has gotten off to a good start and this 5th-wicket stand has also crossed 50, making it 3 50+stands for the last 4 wickets. The hosts still have Jamie Smith to come, who had a phenomenal debut Test. What has been interesting is - in stark contrast to the previous Test, Bazball is clearly on display here, wherein Ben Stokes is keen to keep the scoring rate high at all times.
Another solid session for England where runs came at a good clip. From the 27 overs bowled in the session, 125 runs were scored at 4.63 runs per over. As play began after Lunch, England were dealt an early blow in the form of Joe Root. Coming in at the departure of Joe Root, Harry Brook made his intentions clear straight away and put the Windies bowlers to the sword. However, he failed to kick on and departed for 36. Dropped on either side of the Lunch break, Ollie Pope carried on his merry w
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ben Stokes, Full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to long off for a single. And that will be TEA on Day 1 with the scoreboard reading 259/4.
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ben Stokes, Bowls it full with the round-arm action, coming into the left-hander around middle and leg, Ben Stokes eases it to mid-wicket.
Shamar Joseph seems to be experiencing discomfort in his left hamstring and he is stretching himself out. The physio is out to have a look and Joseph is walking off the field. It will be Kraigg Brathwaite to complete the over. Due to this delay, it will now certainly be the final over before Tea.
Kraigg Brathwaite to Ollie Pope, Comes from around the wicket and slides this one full and outside off, Ollie Pope waits back and cuts to to third man for a single.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Stokes, Edged and falls short! Comes from around the wicket and bangs it on a nagging length, just outside off, Ben Stokes looks for the drive but gets an outside edge falling short of the third slip.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and hurls it on a back of a length, angling into middle, Ollie Pope clips it past mid-wicket for a single.Â
Shamar Joseph is back for what could be the penultimate over before Tea.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Slants this full and into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it to mid on.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Shorter length and width on offer, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to deep backward point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Quicker and fuller into off, Ollie Pope blocks it back to the bowelr.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Loops this on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes slaps it to deep cover for a single.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a shorter length and into middle and off, Ben Stokes dabs it in front of mid-wicket and squeezes a single to bring up the fifty-run partnership between these two.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Gets the bouncer right this time does Jayden Seales! Bends his back and hits the deck hard over off, Ben Stokes sways away from the line.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Looks for the bouncer and hits the deck hard down leg. Ben Stokes looks to pull it away but the ball keeps low off the pitch.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes leaves it alone.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Top effort in the deep to keep it down to just two!
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on middle and leg, Ollie Pope tucks it to mid-wicket.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, A tad fuller and on off, Ollie Pope gets on the front foot but cuts it late to deep backward point for a couple of runs.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on off, Ollie Pope gets his front leg ahead and blocks it right under his eyes.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Bowls it full, on off, Ben Stokes pushes it to mid off.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, A few good-looking shots that haven't fetched him a single run! This is full and outside off, Ben Stokes drives it straight to cover.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Width on offer outside off, on a fuller length, Ben Stokes leans ahead and crisps it to the fielder at backward point.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, On a good length, outside off, Ben Stokes watchfully leaves it alone.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes drives it off the center of the bat but finds the man at covers.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, A slight fumble from the bowler allows the single. Too full and on off, Ben Stokes drives it to the right of the bowler who gets to the ball quickly but doesn't bend down enough to make the stop.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Slants this full and into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drags the length short and wider than off, Ollie Pope rocks back quickly nad cuts it to deep point for one.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Quicker and fuller into the stumps, Ollie Pope gets a good stride out and blocks it.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Stokes, A sharp bouncer around middle and off, Ben Stokes sways away as this one zips past him.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Full and attacking the off stump line, Ollie Pope gets his bat ahead and pushes it past the bowler and to the left of mid on for a single.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Goes a tad fuller around off, Ollie Pope with soft hands blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Hits the hard length, around off, Ollie Pope blocks it back onto the deck.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, LEG BYES! Jayden Seales bangs it into the deck on a length and on leg, Ollie Pope looks to tuck it away fine but doesn't connect. The ball brushes his thigh pad and races away to the fine leg fence for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Moves to 99 with that single! Too full, on off, Ollie Pope whips it down to long on for one.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, ! Errs in line for once and pays the price! Bowls it down leg, on a fuller length, Ollie Pope gets low on a knee and sweeps it fine past the keeper for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Full and on off, Ollie Pope drives it to sweeper cover for a brace.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, A no-look reverse sweep that! Tossed up around off, Ollie Pope reverse sweeps it to deep point for a couple of runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Angles it across on a length, outside off. The ball kicks off the surface and Ben Stokes leaves it alone. A good end to the over from Jason Holder!
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Fuller and on off, Ben Stokes drives it on the full but straight to mid off.
Jason Holder to Ben Stokes, Angles this one across on a fuller length, outside off, Ben Stokes leaves it alone.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Too full this time into middle and leg, Ollie Pope clips it past mid-wicket. Alzarri Joseph from mid on chases the ball and does well to push it back into play. The batters get three runs off it.Â
A change of bat for Ben Stokes. The selection has been done and we are all good to go.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, ! Gets it through the gap beautifully! Jason Holder serves this juicy half-volley outside off, Ollie Pope leans ahead and creams it through covers for a boundary.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Fires this one quicker and into the stumps, Ben Stokes pats it back to the bowler.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Drags the length a tad shorter and on off, Ben Stokes pushes it to cover.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Tosses this one full and slanting into the stumps, Ben Stokes blocks it to the off side.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ben Stokes gets his front leg out and taps it back to the bowler.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Too full and just outside off, Ben Stokes drives it to cover.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Bowls it slower and fuller, outside off, Ollie Pope reaches out and slashes it over backward point for a single to end the over.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, On a length just outside off, Ollie Pope leans on it and drives it straight to the man at cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Full and angles into the pads, Ollie Pope clips it to mid-wicket.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Goes full again but attacks the stumps, Ollie Pope drives it to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, ! Errs in line and Ollie Pope makes full use of it! Too full and into the pads, Ollie Pope flicks it well through the square leg region for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Steams from over the wicket and bangs the deck on a good length, outside off, Ollie Pope watches the line and shoulders arms.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Bowls it full and outside off, Ollie Pope looks for the cut but misses out.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, Full and on the pads, Ben Stokes clips it square of the wicket on the leg side for a single to get off the mark.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Stokes, No run.
The captain of England, Ben Stokes walks in now.
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, ! c Kirk Mckenzie b Kevin Sinclair.
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, Goes full and attacks the stumps, Harry Brook blocks it right under his eyes.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, End of a good over from Jason Holder! Bangs it on a fuller length, outside off with some away movement off the deck, Ollie Pope holds his bat up and leaves this one alone.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Takes some pace off and bowls it full, outside off, Ollie Pope drives it well but straight to cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Continues to keep it tight around the fourth stump line, on a nagging length, Ollie Pope watchfully blocks it out.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Goes fuller and outside off, Ollie Pope drives it straight to mid off.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, On a length, outside off, Harry Brook cuts it hard to the left of deep point for a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Harry Brook, Bowls this quicker and fuller just outside off. The ball skids through and stays a bit low. Harry Brook adjusts well on the backfoot and cuts it to deep point for a single. Brings up the 200 runs for England!
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Tosses it up around middle and off, Ollie Pope pushes it to long on and gets a single.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Bowls this one full and onto middle and leg, Ollie Pope punches it to mid-wicket.Â
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Flatter and fuller, into the pads, Ollie Pope clips it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Flights this one fuller and on off, Ollie Pope takes a big stride out and blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Drinks! England maintain a firm grip in the first half of this session, taking full advantage of West Indies' erratic bowling. Despite losing Joe Root, the team has capitalized on loose deliveries and made the most of it asserting their dominance in this session. West Indies will be desperate to regroup and tighten their bowling, as opportunities for wickets have slipped through their fingers with a couple of crucial dropped catches. The stage is perfectly set for an exciting conclusion to th
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, No run.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Another misfield!
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Fuller in length, on off, Harry Brook drives it well but straight to cover.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Gets the ball to tail back in from wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle, on the sixth stump line, on a hard length, Harry Brook reads it well, covers his off pole and lets it go.
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, A fumble and they get back for the second run!
Jason Holder to Harry Brook, Begins his new spell from over the wicket and goes full, outside off, Harry Brook watchfully leaves the ball alone.
Jason Holder (4-0-21-0) comes back into the attack.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, In and around the sixth stump line, on a good length, Ollie Pope covers the line of the ball and pats it back to the bowler. A maiden by Joseph!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes full at 130 kph, outside off, a tempter for Ollie Pope who does not fall for the trap and shoulders arms.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, This straightens up a bit off the deck, on a short of a good length, on off, Ollie Pope waits on the back foot and stabs it down on the off side.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, At 134 kph, outside off, on a length, Ollie Pope is happy to let that one go.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Touch fuller by Joseph and it moves away a bit, outside off, Ollie Pope lunges and drives it straight to mid off.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a short of a good length, around off, Ollie Pope punches it to cover.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Into the wicket by Joseph but the line is around leg, Harry Brook ducks and lets it go.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Fuller in length, on off, driven back towards the bowler by Brook. Holder makes a half stop in his follow through and parries it to mid off.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Cracking shot! Alzarri Joseph bends his back and digs it in short. This is not a bad delivery by any means. In the channel on off, on a shortish length, Harry Brook does not have much room to work with but he arches back and creates the room. Gets on top of the bounce nicely and slaps it over the deep backward point fence for a six.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Digs this short and hits the deck hard outside off, Harry Brook looks to slash it over point but makes no connection.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Gets enough on it! Shamar Joseph errs in line and sprays this fuller-length delivery into middle and leg, Ollie Pope glances it fine for a boundary to end the over.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes full and lands it around middle and off, Ollie Pope with delicate hands pushes it to mid off.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Gets the line a touch closer to the off stump and on a length, Ollie Pope rocks back and cuts it well but still fails to find the gap.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a length, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it hard but straight to backward point.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Continues to bowl it straight but angles this one inform wider of the crease, Ollie Pope clips this to mid-wicket again.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Comes from over the wicket and attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ollie Pope flicks it straight to the man at mid-wicket.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Was that a chance? Did that carry? Yes, it certainly did. Alick Athanaze puts it down again!
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Tighter line as this one zips through, on a back of a length, on off, Harry Brook watchfully leaves it alone.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, ! On another day, that would have crashed onto the stumps! Ollie Pope is living a charmed life here.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, A bit fuller this time, on off, Ollie Pope lunges and times the drive to mid off.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Good shot but equally well fielded!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Make that a hat-trick of fours! A nothing delivery by Joseph as this is short but no real pace or bounce on it to trouble the batter. Harry Brook gets his weight on the back foot and glides it between gully and backward point for four more runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Class written all over this one!
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, ! Shot! Hit with real authority! Joseph errs in line as he serves it wide outside off, on a length, Harry Brook frees his arms and cracks the drive through covers for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Harry Brook, Oh, what happened there?
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the hard length, over middle, Ollie Pope swivels and gets on top of the bounce to pull it to deep backward square leg for a single.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, On a back of a length, on off, Harry Brook hangs back and dabs it towards point.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, Wide!
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, At the stumps, on a good length, Harry Brook gets behind the line of the ball and blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, No run.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, Four!
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, ! Nowhere in control and Brook gets lucky!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Poor delivery and duly punished!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a back of a length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and punches it past backward point for a couple of runs.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Jason Holder drops this one at the second slip!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands this on a good length just around off, Ollie Pope dabs it back onto the deck.Â
Shamar Joseph to Harry Brook, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, A beauty to end the over! Hits the deck hard on a shorter length just outside off. The ball just kicks off the deck nad nips past the outside edge as Ollie Pope looks to block it with a straight bat.Â
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Bangs it into the surface on a shorter length and outside off, Ollie Pope with an extended arm cuts it hard but finds the man at backward point.
Jayden Seales to Harry Brook, 1 run.
Harry Brook walks out to bat at number 5 for England.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, ! c Alzarri Joseph b Jayden Seales.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Oh, my! This has missed everything!
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, No run.
Halt in play. Kraigg Brathwaite is upset with the ball and asks the umpire for a change of ball. The umpire pulls out the measuring gauge and the ball doesn't get through. Which means, a new ball will be brought into the play. Right then, we are now good to resume!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Joseph steams in and hurls it on a length, on off, Ollie Pope shows the full face of the bat and times the drive straight back at the bowler. Shamar Joseph gets his right hand low in his follow through and takes the sting out of the ball as it dribbles back towards the stumps at the bowling end.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Gets it through!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, A bit fuller by Joseph, on off, Ollie Pope presents a solid front foot defence back to the bowler.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Beaten! Width on offer by Joseph on off, short in length, Ollie Pope's eyes light up as he throws his hands at the delivery but connects with thin air. A loose shot by Pope and he is lucky not to nick this one behind.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Angling in a touch, on a hard length, around off, Joe Root gets on his toes nicely to ride the bounce and punches it to the right of point for a single.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Fuller by Seales, in the corridor of off, Joe Root gives the bowler the charge to get momentum into the shot. Drives it along the ground to mid off.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Keeps it just outside off, on a short of a good length, Joe Root goes back in his crease and stabs it down the deck.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Much better by Seales as this is on a back of a length, on off, Joe Root hangs back and guides it on the bounce to gully.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
It will be Jayden Seales (5-1-34-0)Â to bowl from the other end.
Shamar Joseph to Joe Root, Goes full this time does Joseph, on the sixth stump line, Joe Root gets on the front foot and defends it right under his eyeline.
Shamar Joseph to Joe Root, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On the off pole line, on a length, Ollie Pope is unable to transfer his weight on the front foot to get the drive away and pats it to mid off.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Much fuller and slanting in, on off, Ollie Pope looks to play it with a straight bat but plays it a bit early and mistimes the shot past the bowler
We are back with action heading into the second session! The two umpires are out in the middle and the West Indies are spreading out to take the field. Ollie Pope and Joe Root stride out to resume their stay at the crease. It will be Shamar Joseph to start this session with the ball in hand. Away we go..
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Starts from over the wicket and goes wide of the crease straight away Serves it on a back of a length, outside off, Ollie Pope hangs back and extends his hands to dab it to point.
... DAY 1, SESSION 2 ...
Had Alick Athanaze held onto Pope's catch at the stroke of Lunch, it would've been a perfect comeback from West Indies after a stellar England show. Nevertheless, the West Indies bowlers will need to regroup and devise new strategies to exert pressure on this potent English batting lineup, especially with the wicket looking to be a belter to bat on. The first session saw an intriguing unfold of events, and the enticing second session will resume in about 40 minutes, at precisely 6.10 pm IST (12.
West Indies, having won the toss and opted to bowl, came out with fiery intent. Alzarri Joseph knocked out Zak Crawley in the very first over. However, the momentum swiftly shifted as Jayden Seales conceded 19 runs in the second over, igniting an onslaught that left the bowlers scrambling for answers. The Drinks break provided a brief respite, allowing Shamar Joseph and spinner Kevin Sinclair to step in and stem the flow of runs. This tighter bowling eventually resulted in a crucial wicket, with
SESSION SUMMARY - 134 Runs, 26 Overs, 2 Wickets. It has been an entertaining first session as England head into lunch as the happier side. Despite an early setback with Zak Crawley departing without adding any score to the board, Ben Duckett stepped up and altered the course of play with his exquisite timing and shot-making. His flurry of boundaries put the West Indies bowlers under pressure, causing them to miss their marks and deliver loose balls that both Duckett and Ollie Pope eagerly ca
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A bit fuller, on off and the ball stays a bit low, Joe Root stays low with the bounce and keeps it out with a straight bat. That will be LUNCH on DAY 1!
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, At 135 kph, on a hard length, on off, Ollie Pope gets right behind the line of the ball and blocks it out.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Tailing in a touch, on off, on a length, Ollie Pope shapes up for the drive but the ball nips back in, resulting in Pope getting it off the inner half of the bat and it goes back to the bowler.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a back of a length, a hint of away movement, on off, Ollie Pope stays back and pushes it to cover.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, This is on a hard length, over off, Joe Root gets on his toes and defends it on the off side. Last over before Lunch coming up.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, ! Short and punished! Joseph tries to go short but this is not short enough, outside off, Joe Root has to wait a bit for the ball to arrive due to the slowness of the surface before pulling it in front of square on the leg side for a boundary.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Fuller and zoning in on the stumps, Ollie Pope gets his bat in front of the pads and clips it past mid-wicket for a run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a back of a length, over middle, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and tucks it to mid-wicket.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, ! Lovely shot! Seales overcooks as he serves a juicy half volley, on middle, Joe Root stays balanced in the crease and clips it through mid-wicket. Root gets his first boundary after 16 balls.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, At 135 kph, on off, on a length, Joe Root tries to put Seales off his stump-to-stump line by walking across early but Seales holds his line. Root closes the bat face early and gets a soft leading edge that dribbles past the bowler.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Touch fuller but continues to attack the stumps does Seales, Joe Root pats it back to the bowler from the crease.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Quick single taken! Fired in, on a good length, on middle, Ollie Pope tucks it to the right of mid on and scampers across for a quick run.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Attacks the off pole, on a good length, Ollie Pope covers the line of the ball and defends it out with a straight bat.
Jayden Seales to Ollie Pope, Goes full but down leg, Ollie Pope gets inside the line to tickle it fine but misses.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, Too straight on the pads, on a length, Joe Root flicks it away off his pads to the left of fine leg for a couple of runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, On a back of a length, on middle, Joe Root hangs back and nudges it to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, Joseph opens Root up with this one!
Alzarri Joseph to Joe Root, On a nagging length, on off, the ball keeps a bit low but Joe Root adjusts to the bounce and blocks it out.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Full but sliding on the pads, Ollie Pope helps it down to fine leg for a single.
Change?
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A maiden by Seales to start his new spell! Around the off pole, on a good length, the ball holds its line a bit, Joe Root covers the line of the ball and defends it on the off side.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, In that corridor of off, on a nagging length, not close to make Root play as he lets it go.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, No run.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Beauty! Seales goes full at 137 kph with an upright seam, around off, Joe Root is caught on the crease as he looks to push it down the ground with a straight bat. The ball pitches and nips away to go past the outside edge.
Jayden Seales (2-0-28-0) comes back into the attack.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, A bit closer this time, on a short of a length, left alone again by Root.
Jayden Seales to Joe Root, Starts from over the wicket, on a good length, shaping away a touch, outside off, Joe Root leaves the ball alone.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Back on it for the final delivery! Serves it on a good length, just outside off, Ollie Pope defends it right under his eyeliner. With 20 minutes to go for Lunch, England are 118/2.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Oh, hello! Where did that come from?
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Nicely done! Fractionally short, outside off, Ollie Pope is quick to hop back and get into the position. Drags the pull through square leg for a boundary.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Fuller in length at 139 kph, outside off, Ollie Pope leans on and drives it straight to cover. Shamar Joseph and West Indies won't mind Pope playing away from his body.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angling in at the pads, on a length, Ollie Pope nudges it off his pads but straight to mid-wicket.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Sharp stop! On a back of a length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on his toes and runs it on the bounce towards gully where Alick Athanaze flies to his right to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Sinclair changes his angle of attack as he comes from around the wicket and drifts it away, on middle, full in length, Ollie Pope clips it off the front foot to mid-wicket where the fielder misfields and concedes a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Joe Root, Short and on off, Joe Root gets on the back foot and steers it behind backward point. Root gets off the mark with a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Joe Root, Fires it full and outside off, Joe Root rocks back and blocks it to the off side.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Joe Root walks out to bat at number 4 for England.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! EDGED AND TAKEN! Shamar Joseph gets the reward for his persistence!
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Hits the deck hard, over off, the ball straightens a bit off the deck, Ben Duckett is equal to the task as he blocks it out on the leg side.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! Slightest of width and Ben Duckett is all over it!
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, This is on a short of a good length, angling in, on off, Ben Duckett does not have much room to work with and he can only stab it down the deck.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Pulls the length back slightly and keeps it in the corridor of uncertainty on off, Ben Duckett covers the line of the ball and defends it on the off side.
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, Joseph steams in from around the wicket for the left-hander, full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it with a straight bat towards mid off.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Keeps it full and on the off pole, Ben Duckett eases it down to long off and picks up a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, ! Risky but effective! Looped up, on a fullish length, on off, Ben Duckett gets a big stride in as he reaches out and takes it on the full. Sweeps it all along the ground and beats Jayden Seales in the deep who slid to his right but failed to cut it off. The 100-run stand comes up between these two batters!
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Speared in, full and on middle, blocked out off the front foot by Ben Duckett.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Drifting in, full and on middle, Ben Duckett drives it down the deck where Sinclair dives to his right to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Fired in at 97 kph, full and on middle, Ollie Pope gets on the front foot and wrists it to deep square leg for one.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pope connects the pull shot this time! Shamar digs it in short, on off, Ollie Pope hangs back and rides the bounce nicely to pull it to deep square leg for a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Slants it in, on off, on a good length, Ollie Pope extends his hands and times the drive well but picks out the man at cover.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Missed out! On a length, straying on the pads, Ollie Pope tries to help it away off his pads but misses and wears it on the front pad.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, On a good length, but not close enough to make the batter play. Left alone outside off by Pope.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Oh, that whizzed under the bat!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Play and a miss! At 139 kph, zipping through, on a shortish length, outside off, Ollie Pope swivels to drag the pull in front of square on the leg side but misses as the ball goes under the bat.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Slips it in full and on middle, Ben Duckett hangs back and works it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Drifting away a touch with the breeze, full and outside off, Ollie Pope gets a good stride in and glides it behind square on the off side for a single.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Gives the ball air nicely, full and on middle, Ollie Pope lunges and blocks it out.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, No run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, 1 run.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Loops it up, full and on middle, Ollie Pope presses forward and nudges it past mid-wicket for a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, At the stumps, on a good length, Ollie Pope clips this one off the stumps towards deep backward square leg and retains the strike with a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, There's that head of Pope falling towards the off side, which has many times led to his downfall!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pope didn't hold back there, did he? Joseph errs in line as he offers width on off, on a length, Ollie Pope's eyes light up as he throws hands at the delivery to thrash it through the off side but connects with thin air.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Pitches it right up does Joseph, a juicy half volley, on off, Ollie Pope cracks the drive but can't get it past cover.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Just a push and it fetches Ollie Pope a couple of runs! Shaping away, on a good length, on off, Ollie Pope lets the ball come to him and just presents a straight bat. Pats it back past the bowler for two runs.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Fuller and quicker, drifting in on the pads, Ben Duckett misses the flick shot. The ball comes off his pads and it is taken low at short leg. A tidy start by Kevin Sinclair, just 2 runs off it.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Darts it in from around the wicket to the left-hander, short in length, on middle and leg, Ben Duckett whips it to mid-wicket.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, Floats it up, slower and fuller, on middle, knocked down to long on for a single by Pope.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, At 93 kph, on a nagging length, on off, Ollie Pope gets on the back foot and pats it to point.
Kevin Sinclair to Ollie Pope, This goes straight on, short and on off, Ollie Pope rocks back and punches it towards the non-striker. Kevin Sinclair moves to his right quickly to make the stop.
Kevin Sinclair to Ben Duckett, Tosses it up, full and on the pads, Ben Duckett clips it through square leg and gets to the other end.
First signs of spin as Kevin Sinclair is introduced into the attack.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angling in again from over the wicket, on a short of a good length, on off, Ollie Pope stabs it down on the off side. A maiden to start the second hour of the first session!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, A mix-up but no harm done!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, And again! Banged on a hard length, around off, Ollie Pope has a feel for it again as he looks to play it away from his body behind square on the off side. Gets taken aback as the ball climbs on him and zips past the bat. Encouraging signs for Shamar Joseph.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Goes wide of the crease on that over-the-wicket angle and gets a hint of away movement, on a length, in the channel on off, Ollie Pope watchfully leaves the ball alone.
Drinks break! Well, if you're a fan of 'Bazball' and missed your dose in the first Test, you'll be pretty happy with what has transpired so far. The runs have come thick and fast for England after the loss of Zak Crawley, with Ben Duckett being the aggressor of the two batters. Jayden Seales has been all over the place with his lines and lengths as has Alzarri Joseph since the first over, resulting in boundaries being leaked from both ends. Jason Holder has comparatively been better but on wha
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Bowls it outside off and on a length, Ben Duckett pushes it straight into the hands of the fielder at short cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Another fuller length-delivery on off, Ben Duckett times his cut well but finds the fielder at cover.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Full and outside off, Ben Duckett with soft hands drives it to mid off.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Keeps it away from the batter and lands it well outside off, on a length, Ben Duckett leaves it alone.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Takes some pace off and bowls it full, outside off, Ben Duckett looks to drive this one too but misses!
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! Comes from around the wicket and serves a fuller-length delivery with too much width outside off, Ben Duckett gets low in his stance and times his drive through covers for a boundary.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ben Duckett, A tad fuller in length and onto the pads, Ben Duckett clips it behind the square of the wicket on the leg side for a single to end the over. He will retain the strike for the next over!
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Slants this one on a fuller length into the stumps, Ollie Pope drives it off the inner half of the bat towards mid on for just a single.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Cuts it through with extreme precision! On a length and on top of off, Ollie Pope waits deep in the crease and cuts it past gully for a boundary.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Attacks the stumps on a good length, Ollie Pope blocks it to mid on.Â
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Shamar Joseph is introduced into the attack now, replacing Alzarri Joseph.
Shamar Joseph to Ollie Pope, Starts from over the wicket and hits the perfect length, just outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to backward point.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Another nice looking shot but will not fetch him any runs! Full and slanting into the stumps, Ben Duckett gets his front leg out and drives it well but finds the fielder at mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, On a length, outside off, Ben Duckett cuts it to backward point.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, hits the good length and gets the ball to come in with the angle, Ben Duckett looks to play it across the line but gets an outside edge towards covers.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Angles it in, around middle and leg and on a length, Ollie Pope tucks it to mid on for a single.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Full and on off, Ben Duckett takes a good stride out and drives it past cover for three good runs.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! FIFTY for Ben Duckett off just 32 deliveries! Jason Holder bowls this outside off and on a shorter length, Ben Duckett opens his bat face enough and cuts this one through the gap between gully and point for four runs. Third fastest fifty for England in Test cricket with the fastest being off 28 balls by Ian Botham.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, On a length, into the pads, Ben Duckett looks to flick it away fine but gets beaten. The ball clips his front pad and rolls in front of square leg. The batters cross for a leg bye!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Digs it on a shorter length over middle and off, Ben Duckett swivels across and looks to pull but the ball just climbs on his as it shoots off the deck and goes through to the keeper.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope cuts it to the left of backward point who does well in stopping the ball and keeping it down to just a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Bangs it on a nagging length, on top of off, Ollie Pope judges the length right and leaves it alone.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, No run.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in on a length and around the pads, Ollie Pope flicks it to mid-wicket.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! Even the slightest of errors in line and lengths are proving to be costly for West Indies! Too full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it beautifully past mid on for a boundary to end the over.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, ! A loosener from Jason Holder and Ben Duckett cashes in! Too full and outside off, Ben Duckett crisps his drive through cover for a boundary.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Attacks the pads on a length, Ben Duckett gets his bat ahead and blocks it out to mid on.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, At 128kph, bowls it full and on off, Ben Duckett drives it to mid off.
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Angles it across on a good length and on top of off, Ben Duckett rocks back and cuts it in front of backward point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope blocks it in front of covers. A good couple of overs from the West Indies to stem the flow of runs!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in, on a good length around middle and leg, Ollie Pope tucks it straight to mid-wicket.
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, NO BALL! Alzarri Joseph has overstepped! A length-delivery outside off, Ben Duckett just cuts it in front of covers and gets a quick single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Bowls it fuller and continues to target outside off, Ben Duckett just blocks it in front of mid off.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Hits the deck on a shorter length just outside off, Ben Duckett cuts it to backward point.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Fuller this time around off, Ben Duckett pushes it to mid off.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Angles this across on a good length around that fifth stump line, Ben Duckett with an angled bat slaps it hard but finds the man at backward point.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, A good over for Jason Holder and West Indies! Just one run off it! Holder bowls it full and outside off, Ollie Pope with delicate hands blocks it to gully.Â
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Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, Attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Ollie Pope pushes it to mid on this time.Â
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, No run.
Jason Holder to Ollie Pope, At 126 kph, lands it on a length, outside off, Ollie Pope leaves this one alone for the keeper to collect.Â
Jason Holder to Ben Duckett, Starts from over the wicket and goes full, just outside off, Ben Duckett drives it past point for a single.Â
Bowling change? Yes, Jason Holder comes into the attack as the first change.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the good length on off, Ollie Pope eases to covers.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Fractionnaly fuller this time on middle and leg, Ben Duckett pulls it to deep backward square leg for a single.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, ! Another one! Short of a length angled into the batter, Ben Duckett slaps it through mid-wicket for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Comes from around the wicket and bowls it on a length around middle and off, Ben Duckett looks to drive it but mistimes it to back to the bowler.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Four!
Alzarri Joseph to Ben Duckett, Digs it too short on middle and leg, Ben Duckett pulls it all along the ground to deep backward square leg for a brace.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Angles it into the left-hander on a length and into the pads, Ben Duckett tucks it to deep square leg for a single. 9 runs come of this over and England are 44/1 at the end of 4!
In case you missed it, the Pavilion end of Trent Bridge was renamed in honour of former England fast bowler and Nottingham-born Stuart Broad before the start of the play.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Guided it well! On a shorter length outside off, Ben Duckett waits back and steers it well past gully for a boundary.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Falling just short of the keeper! On a length, outside off inviting the batter to to cut. Ben Duckett with not much of foot movement looks to slash at it and gets a thin outside edge falling short of the wicketkeeper.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, No run.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! The third consecutive boundary for England! Jayden Seales bangs it on a shorter length but gives width outside off, Ben Duckett rocks back and just times his cut past point for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Timed to perfection! On a good length angled into the pads, Ollie Pope brings his bottom hand into play and flicks it beautifully to the left of square leg for another boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Runs flowing thick and fast for England since that first over! This is short of a length and outside off, Ollie Pope quickly transfers his weight back and cuts it well past gully for a boundary.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Serves it on a length and into the pads, Ollie Pope tucks it with soft hands towards deep square leg and gets two more runs.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, 2 runs.
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, That a top delivery! Lands it on a nagging length around off and gets the ball to move away a touch as Ollie Pope looks to poke at it. The ball beats the outside edge!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Angles it in on a fuller length but down leg.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, 2 runs.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, A good delivery now after 5 bad ones! Hits the deck hard around off and gets the ball to shape away a bit, Ben Duckett gets his bat high and blocks it inside the line as the ball zips through to the keeper.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, Four!
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Comes from around the wicket but it doesn't change the outcome for Jayden Seales as Ben Duckett sends it to the boundary on the other side! Too full and angling into the stumps, Ben Duckett flicks it beautifully past mid-wicket for a boundary.
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Easy pickings! Jayden Seales drags the length short but offers a lot of width outside off. Ben Duckett rocks back in a flash and cuts it through point this time for back-to-back boundaries.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, ! Not the ideal start from Jayden Seales as he offers a freebie to Ben Duckett who gets off the mark in some style. Too full and outside off, Duckett just leans on it and crisps his drive through covers for a boundary.Â
Jayden Seales to Ben Duckett, WIDE! Comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and well outside off for a wide.Â
Who will operate from the other end?
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, ! Top, top shot to get things underway for England and Ollie Pope! Too full this time from Alzarri Joseph, onto the stumps, Ollie Pope times his straight drive to perfection sending the ball past mid on for a nice-looking boundary. England at 4/1 after the first over!
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the perfect length around that off-stump line, Ollie Pope pushes it back to the bowler.Â
Alzarri Joseph to Ollie Pope, Hits the deck hard and gets the ball to bounce around middle, Ollie Pope covers the line and tucks it to short mid-wicket.
Ollie Pope walks in at number 3.
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, CAUGHT! What a perfect start this has been for West Indies! Zak Crawley has to walk back for a duck!
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, Bangs it into the surface on a shorter length and angling it into the right-hander on middle and leg, Zak Crawley gets his bat high and blocks it out, awkwardly!
Alzarri Joseph to Zak Crawley, No run.
All in readiness for the action to commence on the first morning of the 2nd Test. The sun is shining its full glory as the two umpires make their way out to the middle. West Indies are in a huddle near the ropes before taking their places on the field. It will be the left-hand right-hand combination of Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley to open the innings for England.
JUST IN - West Indies have been forced to make a late change to their playing XI announced yesterday. Gudakesh Motie woke up feeling unwell and he will be replaced by Kevin Sinclair. This could prove to be a blessing in disguise for the visitors as Sinclair has the batting credentials to go with his off spin, adding depth to their batting unit.
West Indies (Playing XI) - Kraigg Brathwaite (C), Mikyle Louis, Kirk Mckenzie, Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Jason Holder, Joshua Da Silva (WK), Alzarri Joseph, Kevin Sinclair (In for Gudakesh Motie), Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales.
England (Playing XI) - Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (WK), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, Shoaib Bashir.
TOSS - The coin toss lands in the favour of West Indies and they have opted to BOWL first.