📸 Image Credit: Windies Cricket / X

Grenada - The second Test between Australia and the West Indies in Grenada has evolved into a gripping battle, with momentum shifting frequently over the first three days. As the contest heads into a decisive phase, Australia maintain a narrow advantage, thanks to crucial middle-order resistance and an impressive showing from their skipper, Pat Cummins.

First-Innings Battle Sets the Tone

Australia posted 286 in their first innings after early wickets put them under pressure. The rescue act came from Beau Webster (60) and Alex Carey (63), who stitched together a 112-run partnership to lift Australia out of trouble. West Indies fought back admirably with Brendon King being the top scorer with a gritty 75, but they were eventually dismissed for 253, giving Australia a slender 33-run first-innings lead.

Cummins and Lyon Stars with the Ball

Australian captain Pat Cummins was once again the standout performer with the ball. He pulled off a sensational caught-and-bowled to dismiss Keacy Carty and then produced a peach of a delivery to castle Shai Hope. His bowling was described as pure genius and proved decisive in limiting West Indies’ reply. While Nathan Lyon picked up 3 wickets. 

Top Order Falters Again

Australia’s second innings began poorly. Young opener Sam Konstas was dismissed for a four-ball duck, dragging one onto his stumps. Usman Khawaja soon followed, trapped LBW for just 2. These early blows exposed Australia’s persistent top-order woes. However, Steve Smith (71), Cameron Green (52), and Travis Head (39) steadied the innings to take Australia to 221/7 at stumps on Day 3, extending their lead to 254 runs.

Testing Conditions in Grenada

The pitch has offered variable bounce and movement throughout the match, making batting a challenging proposition. Smith, returning from a finger injury, called the surface tricky and inconsistent. These conditions are expected to play a major role as the Test progresses.

What Lies Ahead

With just three wickets remaining, Australia will look to stretch their lead past 300 before declaring/getting all out. The West Indies, bolstered by Jayden Seales, Justin Greaves and Shamar Joseph’s sharp spells, remain in contention. The hosts will need to apply sustained pressure early on Day 4 to seize control.

Key Talking Points

  • Australia’s top-order fragility is a growing concern, particularly ahead of future high-stakes series.
  • Pat Cummins continues to lead from the front with both ball and strategy.
  • West Indies remain hopeful, especially with Kraigg Brathwaite still to make a mark in his 100th Test.
  • The match holds significant importance in the World Test Championship standings.

As things stand, Australia hold the upper hand with a lead of over 250 runs and three wickets still in hand. However, the contest is far from over. The pitch continues to play tricks, and with both sides displaying moments of brilliance, Day 4 could be pivotal. While West Indies face a challenging chase on a tricky surface, they have the advantage of time on their side. If their batting unit shows composure and application, they remain very much in the hunt.

SCORECARD

WI 253
AUS 286 & 221/7 (64.3)

Day 3: Stumps - Australia lead by 254 runs