An excellent tenth wicket partnership of 71 helped West Indies fetch the first innings lead against England at Trent Bridge by Lunch on Day 3. It was a commendable effort from the visitors considering they lost the experienced Jason Holder very early in the day.
Having conceded over 400 runs on the opening day, their fightback hinged on an industrious maiden Test century from Kavem Hodge and a fine 82 from Alick Athanaze. 53/0 had quickly become 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, 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.
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Chris Woakes is on fire at Trent Bridge 🏴 pic.twitter.com/W7NGGUOETM
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) July 20, 2024
