In the day-night second Test against Australia, West Indies displayed resilience with Joshua Da Silva and Kavem Hodge’s half-centuries, helping them recover from a poor start. The Caribbean side ended the first day at the Gabba with a respectable 266 for eight in their first innings.
After choosing to bat first, West Indies faced early troubles as Australia’s Mitchell Starc triggered a collapse, reducing them to 64 for five before the dinner break. However, Da Silva and Hodge shared a crucial 149-run partnership for the sixth wicket to rescue their team.
Da Silva scored 79 runs, while Hodge contributed 71. Their partnership spanned almost two sessions and helped West Indies avoid another batting collapse. Despite the challenging periods, they showed incredible resilience against Australia’s bowling attack.
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite was dismissed early, caught behind for just four runs. The team faced a tough period before the dinner break, losing wickets at regular intervals.
Defied the Australian bowlers
After dinner, Da Silva and Hodge defied the Australian bowlers during the perilous twilight period. Da Silva faced a barrage of short-pitched deliveries early in his innings but displayed courage and technique. Hodge overcame two close calls and reached his half-century first, followed by Da Silva.
Their partnership ended just before the second new ball, with Da Silva being dismissed lbw, and Hodge caught at second slip. Alzarri Joseph provided some late entertainment, scoring 32 runs, and West Indies finished the day at 266 for eight.
Australia’s Mitchell Starc was the standout bowler, finishing the day with four wickets for 68 runs from 20 overs. The match at the Gabba is part of the two-Test series, with Australia leading 1-0 after winning the first Test in Adelaide.
