The second Test match between West Indies and South Africa in Guyana witnessed a dramatic opening day, with both teams facing challenges on a lively pitch at Providence Stadium. The day began with West Indies successfully bowling out South Africa for a modest 160 runs, with fast bowler Shamar Joseph claiming an impressive five wickets. However, the home side’s response was far from ideal, struggling to 97 for 7 wickets by the end of play.
The first innings saw a flurry of wickets, as seamers from both sides exploited the conditions to good effect. South Africa, who won the toss and opted to bat first, were unable to establish a solid foundation. Joseph’s relentless pace and movement proved too much for the South African batters, with five of them being bowled clean. Jayden Seales also chipped in with a commendable 3-45.
However, South Africa’s fortunes turned around in the final session as Dane Piedt and Nandre Burger put together a record-breaking 63-run stand for the tenth wicket. This partnership helped the visitors reach a respectable first innings total despite being on the brink of collapse at 97-9.
West Indies, in reply, started their innings with a sense of optimism but were swiftly brought back down to earth by the exceptional bowling of Wiaan Mulder. He ripped through the top order, picking up crucial wickets, including that of captain Kraigg Brathwaite for just 3 runs. Mulder’s brilliant one-handed caught-and-bowled dismissal of Alick Athanaze (1) further compounded the home team’s woes. Mulder ended the day with impressive figures of 4-18.
The West Indies were reeling at 56-6 when Jason Holder came to the rescue. He mounted a commendable counter-attack, forging a 41-run partnership for the seventh wicket with Gudakesh Motie (11). However, the latter was dismissed on the final delivery of the day, leaving Holder stranded on 33 not out.
Despite the struggles, Holder will be looking to guide his team past South Africa’s first innings total on the second morning. But, with the pitch showing signs of turn and Holder running out of partners, it will be an uphill task for the West Indies to salvage something from this precarious situation.
