Nahid Rana scripts Bangladesh’s comeback, West Indies on backfoot after Day 3

West Indies were in a good position after bundling Bangladesh for 164 runs in the first innings of the second Test of the ongoing series. Opener Mikyle Louis failed to get going but captain Kraigg Brathwaite and Keacy Carty looked solid and the hosts were expected to take a healthy lead in the first innings. However, on Day 3, Brathwaite and Carty departed for 39 and 40 runs respectively and that led to a wicket fest as the hosts were bundled for 146 runs.

Apart from the top three, none of the batters could score in double digits. Bangladesh pacers dominated during that phase and the hosts didn’t look ready. The next eight batters contributed only 41 runs, which is heavily concerning. Meanwhile, pacer Nahid Rana was the ‘X-Factor’ for Bangladesh in the first innings. He picked up wickets with the new ball and then in the middle, and sent Kemar Roach back to the pavilion towards the end. He clinched a five-wicket haul, while Hasan Mahmud picked two and Taskin Ahmed, Taijul Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz picked one each.

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Bangladesh started well with the bat in the second innings. Shadman Islam, who scored a half-century in the first innings, managed to give a promising beginning. He made 46 runs, while captain Miraz scored 42 runs off 39 deliveries. Bangladesh showed intent, which was crucial for them to take a healthy lead and attack the West Indies' mental side. Litton Das later made 25 runs, while Jaker Ali remained unbeaten for 29 runs after Day 3.

They managed to secure a lead of 211 runs. With five wickets remaining, the goal will be to extend the lead and push West Indies in the backfoot. Batting in the fourth innings won’t be an easy task at Sabina Park in Jamaica, and Bangladesh bowlers won’t make it any easy either, especially after their ruthless performance on Day 3.