December 22, 2024
Greaves reaches first Test century as West Indies dominate Bangladesh

Greaves reaches first Test century as West Indies dominate Bangladesh

Undefeated: West Indies' Justin Greaves makes his first Test century (Pat Hoelscher)

Undefeated: West Indies’ Justin Greaves makes his first Test century (Pat Hoelscher)

Justin Greaves reached a maiden Test century as the West Indies stormed past Bangladesh to take firm control of the opening Test on Saturday.

The 30-year-old all-rounder, playing only his third match at this level and his first in the Caribbean, made an unbeaten 115.

His innings helped West Indies declare 450-9 before Bangladesh reached 40-2 in reply at stumps.

Greaves, who was on 11 overnight, took 181 balls to make his century with just four boundaries.

It was an exercise in patience from the Barbadian who shared a 140-run partnership with Kemar Roach for the eighth wicket.

Greaves was the third West Indian to make a half-century after Mikyle Louis (97) and Alick Athanaze (90) on the opening day.

Roach, playing in his 83rd Test, recorded his highest score of 47 before being bowled out by Bangladesh seamer Hasan Mahmud.

Mahmud brought down three of the four West Indies on Saturday, dismissing Joshua Da Silva (14), Alzarri Joseph (four), as well as Roach.

In response, Bangladesh lost the first two matches in the 20 overs they faced.

Zakir Hasan had made 15 before being hit by Jayden Seales and when Alzarri Joseph tried Mahmudal Hasan Joy (five) to offer Athanaze a catch, the tourists tipped to 21-2.

However, experienced batsmen Mominul Haque (seven) and Shahadat Hossain (10) held on to take their team all the way without further drama.

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