England vs West Indies: Why Kraigg Brathwaite's half-century in the first innings is critical for him?

It was an innings of determination and character. Against the guile of James Anderson, the pace of Mark Wood and the accuracy of Jofra Archer, Kraigg Brathwaite scored a sedate half century to help his side gain control of the first Test at Southampton. It was his first half century in almost two years for his country in the whites and one that he had desperately needed.

The right-hander was the catalyst of the innings for the visitors, as his 65-run knock allowed the West Indies to dominate the proceedings on the third day. The opener combined caution and aggression with equal measure, and did not offer a chance to the hosts.

When the bowlers strayed in line, he flicked them with panache past square leg, and when they over pitched to him, Kraigg Brathwaite transferred his weight onto the front foot and drove them for fours. But more importantly, he knew where his off stump was, and was proficient off either foot.

A Torrid 2019 in Tests

Brathwaite endured a torrid 2019 in Test cricket. It was the lowest point of his Test career and had his backs against the wall. It was under these circumstances that he boarded the flight to England. The opener had averaged a miserable 16.82 in Tests played in 2019, and could not even cross the 20-run mark in 9 consecutive innings.

Even in the one off Test against minnows Afghanistan, the opener managed to score just 19 runs in both the innings put together. Also, he had not even managed to score a single half century in the whole of 2019, and his place in the side was questioned.

A Refreshed Kraigg Brathwaite makes it count

But then, Kraigg Brathwaite recharged his batteries and put up a commendable performance in the first innings against England, top scoring for the West Indies in the first Test. He was positive in his approach, put his failures behind him, and contributed to his side when it mattered the most in tough overseas conditions.

However, what was good to see was he did not go into a shell. He played his shots when the opportunity presented itself, and was always on the lookout for runs. And, by scoring a half century against a top class bowling attack, Brathwaite has announced to the world that he is here to stay.

On a personal front, this innings was pivotal for the opener and one that will do his confidence a world of good. But in the larger scheme of things, his innings has laid the foundation for West Indies to score a rare victory over the hosts on English soil.

With a lead of 114 runs in the first innings, the West Indies have obtained control of the first Test, and it is largely due to Brathwaite’s knock. The visitors will be hoping that he kicks on from here and puts his lean run behind him.