📸 Image Credit: West Indies Cricket on X

 Australia consolidated their dominance over the West Indies by winning the 2nd Test by 133 runs at the National Cricket Stadium, St. George’s, Grenada. The Aussies now take an unassailable 2–0 lead in the three-match series, heading into the crucial day-night finale at Sabina Park, Kingston.

Match Summary

Australia batted first, posting 286 in their opening innings. Contributions from Beau Webster and Alex Carey (both finishing in the 60s) revived the innings when the visitors were under pressure. In response, West Indies battled back admirably; Brandon King anchored the chase with 75, and valuable lower‑order runs pushed their total to 253, trimming the deficit to just 33.

Australia struck back in their second outing with 243, thanks to gritty half-centuries by Cameron Green and Steve Smith. This set West Indies a target of 277. Facing pressure on a deteriorating surface, the hosts were bowled out for just 143, collapsing under relentless Australian bowling.

Australia’s bowlers were clinical, keeping West Indies scoring under check in both innings—a testament to their disciplined and well-coordinated unit.

Key Performers

Alex Carey was named Player of the Match. Coming in during a tricky phase, his composed batting in key partnerships stabilized Australia’s 1st innings and he made a valuable 30 runs contribution in Aussie's second innings. All Australian bowlers have chipped in at crucial times and never let the lid go off the pressure cooker in both the innings.

Pat Cummins acknowledged the tight nature of the contest and emphasized the team’s ability to adapt under pressure. He stated that weathering the early spells and clarity in execution were key to their success.

West Indies skipper Roston Chase admitted that early wicket losses and lack of partnerships cost them the game. He urged his top order to show more resilience and responsibility ahead of the final Test.

Tactical Insights

The Grenada wicket offered seam movement early on, which made the new ball extremely effective. Australia managed to weather those spells well and laid solid foundations. As the pitch aged, reverse swing and bounce came into play, giving Australian quicks a lethal edge.

West Indies’ batting lineup struggled to convert starts. Aside from Brandon King’s 75 and a few lower-order contributions, they couldn’t build any meaningful partnerships. Shot selection and temperament were major concerns.

Series Outlook

With a 2–0 lead, Australia are firmly in control of the series. Pat Cummins hinted at some rotation and strategic planning for the final Test, while still aiming to maximize World Test Championship points.

For the West Indies, the third Test in Jamaica represents not just an opportunity to salvage pride but also to adapt quickly to their first-ever day-night Test. Several players lack experience under lights, making preparation all the more crucial.

What to Watch in the Final Test

  • How both teams adapt to day-night conditions in a historic Test at Sabina Park.
  • Whether West Indies’ top order can finally find form.
  • The continued dominance of Australia’s pace attack under the lights.
  • Potential squad rotations or strategic tweaks by both sides.

Australia have momentum, but the West Indies have the home crowd and pride at stake. The final match promises to be a compelling conclusion to an already intense series.

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SCORECARD

AUS 286 & 243
WI 253 & 143

Australia won by 133 runs

PLAYER OF THE MATCH

Alex Carey