West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves made history on Monday during the first ICC World Test Championship Test against Pakistan in Trinidad. Greaves became the first bowler in Test cricket to record five consecutive wicket maidens since records became widely available. This significant achievement occurred during an impactful spell on the third day of the match.
Greaves’ performance was pivotal, particularly around the lunch break, as he dismantled the visitors’ batting lineup. This marked his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket, surpassing the previous record of four consecutive wicket maidens set by former England fast bowler Stuart Broad against South Africa in Johannesburg in January 2016.
Reflecting on his spell, Greaves mentioned that he maintained a simple approach, following the guidance of West Indies skipper Roston Chase. Chase had advised him to bowl with discipline and focus on hitting good areas to secure wickets for the team.
Greaves noted that the ball was moving, which allowed him to gain rewards for his efforts. He expressed his happiness at achieving his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket, while also acknowledging that there was still more work to be done in the ongoing match.
Pakistan’s collapse and Greaves’ impact
Initially, Pakistan appeared to be building a strong lead in their first innings. They were well-positioned at 244/3, with Shan Masood having just completed his century. However, Greaves initiated a collapse by dismissing the former captain.
Following Masood’s dismissal, Greaves continued his destructive spell. He removed Aamer Jamal, Ali Usman, and Mohammad Rizwan in successive overs without conceding any runs. This rapid succession of wickets left Pakistan struggling at 267/8 by lunch, facing significant trouble in response to the West Indies‘ first innings total of 311.
After the lunch break, Greaves completed his historic feat by having Mohammad Abbas caught behind in his very first over. This brought an end to Pakistan‘s innings, as they were all out for 282. Greaves’ inspired spell of seam bowling from the experienced right-armer played a crucial role in limiting Pakistan‘s total.
Match situation and series outlook
Despite Greaves’ heroics, Pakistan managed to stage a fightback before stumps on the third day. They reduced the hosts to 126/7, establishing an overall lead of 155 runs. At the close of play, Shamar Joseph (22*) and Kemar Roach (5*) remained at the crease, set to resume batting on the fourth day.
On Day 2, Pakistan had ended in a strong position, reaching 199/3 in response to the West Indies‘ 311. Shan Masood, who had recently stepped down from the captaincy, led Pakistan‘s recovery with an unbeaten 88. He was supported by Imam-ul-Haq, who scored 63, as the pair forged a crucial 155-run partnership.
Earlier in the match, the West Indies were bowled out for 311 after starting Day 2 at 194/3. Shai Hope was the top scorer with 92 runs, while Kavem Hodge contributed 84. Mohammad Ali took four wickets for Pakistan, and Mohammad Abbas claimed three.
The first Test is scheduled from July 25-29 in Tarouba, with the second Test set to take place from August 2-6 in Port of Spain.
Source: icc-cricket.com
