An industrious maiden Test century from Kavem Hodge and a fine 82 from Alick Athanaze helped West Indies mount a fightback against England in the second Test at Trent Bridge. The 175-run stand between Hodge and Athanaze has reduced the deficit to 65 with five wickets still in hand.
West Indies made a good start in the first hour as skipper Kraigg Brathwaite found plenty of boundaries. However, the momentum shifted post the drinks break as Shoaib Bashir broke the opening partnership and at the stroke of Lunch, he was gifted another wicket as Kirk McKenzie played a rash shot.
In between those two wickets was Brathwaite’s key dismissal. Gus Atkinson bowled a well-directed bouncer that the Windies captain tried to fend away but he was unsuccessful in his attempt as the short leg fielder accepted a dolly. 53/0 quickly became 84/3 and the West Indies needed the middle order to show some spirit.
Much to their joy, Hodge and Athanaze put their hand up to forge a vital century partnership in the second session, ensuring no wickets were lost. Finally, it was the golden arm of Ben Stokes that broke the rock-solid alliance as Athanaze edged to gully.
That wicket didn’t impede Hodge who looked in fluent touch. The centurion eventually got trapped for 120 after the visitors had gone past the 300-run mark. That was a remarkable achievement in itself for a side that failed to make even 150 in both the innings of the first Test at Lord’s.
Brief scores: West Indies 351/5 (Kavem Hodge 120, Alick Athanaze 82; Shoaib Bashir 2/100) trail England 416 by 65 runs
Kavem Hodge releases the early pressure in his innings with a fine strike through point! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/LADo9m3vpm
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) July 19, 2024
KAVEM HODGE HAS HIS MAIDEN TEST CENTURY! 🌟
How about that celebration 🤩 pic.twitter.com/bu5IiHmVkT
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) July 19, 2024
