Brisbane, Day 2: Cricket under the floodlights was a sight to behold as Day 2 of the pink-ball Test in Brisbane delivered a rollercoaster of emotions. Pat Cummins, the Aussie skipper, emerged as the unlikely batting hero, but despite his valiant effort, the West Indies still hold a precarious edge heading into Day 3.
West Indies Set a Challenging Target:
Resuming their overnight score of 266/8, the Windies’ tail wagged with gusto, adding another 45 runs before being skittled out for 311. Kevin Sinclair, with a maiden half-century, was the unlikely protagonist, showcasing grit and composure against a potent Aussie attack.
Early Stumbles for Australia:
Australia’s reply started disastrously. Kemar Roach, breathing fire with the new ball, ripped through the top order, claiming three wickets in a fiery spell. At 24/4, the Aussies stared down the barrel, and the ghosts of a series defeat loomed large.
Carey and Khawaja Steady the Ship:
Just when the Windies thought they had the Aussies on the ropes, Alex Carey and Usman Khawaja dug deep. Carey, in his typically aggressive style, counter-punched with a brisk 65, while Khawaja provided the anchor with a patient 75. Their 96-run partnership not only stabilized the innings but also instilled a sense of belief in the home camp.
Cummins Takes Center Stage:
With Carey’s dismissal, the baton was passed to Cummins. The Aussie skipper, renowned for his bowling prowess, surprised everyone with an attacking batting display. He bludgeoned his way to a career-best 64*, peppering the Windies bowling with boundaries and injecting much-needed momentum into the innings.
Tail Wags, Australia Declares at 296:
Cummins found able support from the lower order, with Nathan Lyon and Michael Neser contributing valuable cameos. With the clock ticking and darkness approaching, Australia declared on 296, leaving the Windies with a lead of 15 runs and 51 overs to survive.
Day Ends with Windies Ahead:
Despite the late onslaught, the Windies navigated the remaining overs with relative ease, reaching 33/1 at stumps. Kraigg Brathwaite remains unbeaten on 20, and with Nkrumah Bonner providing solid company, the visitors are well placed to extend their lead in the morning.
Intriguing Contest Poised for a Thrilling Conclusion:
Day 2 leaves the match tantalizingly poised. While Cummins’ fighting spirit has kept the Aussies in the hunt, the Windies retain the upper hand. The pink ball’s unpredictability under the floodlights promises another fascinating day of cricket as both teams vie for supremacy in this epic clash.
