Bowling Dominance in Bridgetown: West Indies Seize Advantage After Australia Collapses on Day 1

The first day of the Test match between Australia and West Indies at Kensington Oval in Barbados witnessed a thrilling battle between bat and ball, with bowling taking center stage. After being dismissed for a modest 180, the Australian quicks responded fiercely, leaving the West Indies struggling at 57-4 at the close of play.

The West Indies' bowlers, spearheaded by Jayden Seales and Shamar Joseph, ripped through the Australian batting lineup. Seales claimed an impressive five wickets for 60 runs, while Joseph contributed with four wickets for 46 runs.

West Indies' Bowling Attack Shines

The West Indies are aiming for their first home Test victory against Australia in over two decades, and their bowlers set a strong foundation by maintaining relentless pressure throughout the day.

Joseph, who previously showcased his talent with a match-winning seven-wicket haul against Australia in Brisbane, continued his impressive form by dismantling the top order.

Missed Opportunities for Australia

The Australian innings was plagued by missed chances, with debutant Brandon King dropping three catches at gully. Captain Roston Chase also put down a crucial catch when Usman Khawaja was on six.

Despite the shaky start, Khawaja managed to score 47 runs and formed a vital 89-run partnership with Travis Head after Australia had stumbled to 22-3 in the morning session. Head emerged as the top scorer with 59 runs, smashing nine boundaries in his 78-ball innings.

Australia's Batting Woes

Australia's decision to bat first after winning the toss was quickly questioned as Joseph removed Sam Konstas and Cameron Green early in the innings.

Seales continued the onslaught by claiming the wicket of Josh Inglis in the morning session and later dismissing Alex Carey just before tea. He then wrapped up the tail by removing Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood.

Seales' Post-Match Comments

"This was really special for me," Seales said. "I was injured when last I played a Test against them so to come back here and get five was really satisfying. With the new ball we knew we had to bowl a bit fuller. This pitch was also a bit slower than the Australians would have expected and that worked in our favour with them playing at balls they didn't have to."

Australian Bowlers Strike Back

The Australian pace attack retaliated in the final session, with Starc dismissing both openers Kraigg Brathwaite and John Campbell.

Cummins removed Keacy Carty, while Hazlewood took the wicket of nightwatchman Jomel Warrican, leaving Brandon King and Roston Chase at the crease at stumps.

The West Indies' batting performance faced significant challenges during the late evening session, with their top order struggling against the relentless Australian pace attack.

The match hangs in the balance as it heads into day two, with both teams demonstrating their bowling prowess on a pitch that favors pace.

The three-match series opener has already highlighted the competitive nature of both teams' bowling attacks, setting the stage for an intriguing contest in the days to come.