The way the three-Test series between West Indies and Australia has started has surprised cricket fans. The fall of 14 wickets on the first day itself on the Barbados pitch is an indication of how tough and exciting this Test series can be. Let’s take a look at the 10 big things of the first day of this match –
Cummins decided to bat after winning the toss and this was costly
The Australian team captain Pat Cummins called the toss and chose to bat first. Usually the Barbados pitch is considered good for batting in the beginning, but this time the situation was different. Australia had lost three wickets for just 22 runs and the direction of the match was decided then.
Travis Head’s fighting innings, but insufficient
While wickets kept falling on one hand, Travis Head took charge. He played a fighting innings of 59 runs and somehow took the team to 180 runs. This innings shows how difficult it was to bat, but other batsmen could not hold on like Travis.
Jaden Seals wreaked havoc, took five wickets
West Indies’ young fast bowler Jaden Seals wreaked havoc with his bowling. He broke the backbone of Australia by taking 5 wickets. His line-length and swing constantly troubled the Kangaroo batsmen.
Usman Khawaja’s important contribution, but missed the century
The experienced batsman of Australia played a calculated innings of 47 runs i.e. Usman Khawaja. He attempted to carry the innings along with Travis Head but as soon as he was dismissed, the team lost the plot again.
Australia’s entire team was bundled out for 180 runs
Australia’s strong batting lineup collapsed this time and the entire team was all out for just 180 runs. This score is neither going to put pressure on the opposition nor is it favorable for the pitch. This score gave West Indies an early lead.
Bad start for West Indies too, two wickets for 16 runs
Australia too, while returning to bowling, spoiled the start of West Indies’ innings. West Indies lost their two early wickets at a score of just 16 runs. This brought the match to a complete draw.
West Indies at 57/4, match becomes thrilling On the first day West Indies were 57 /4 at the end of the first day. This fact means that 14 wickets were lost by the two teams on the same day. That shows that this Barbados pitch is not pitched to bat, but pitcher.
Pitch behaviour: Heaven for bowlers
This Barbados pitch kept helping the fast bowlers throughout the day. Bounce, seam movement and light swing tested the batsmen. If the weather and the pitch’s mood remain the same on the second day as well, then this test match will not even go till the fourth day.
CRUSHING4152021
The new WTC cycle kicks off with the launch of this smashing series. While Australia lost the WTC final last time, West Indies is looking to start winning on its home ground. In such a situation, this series is very important for both the teams.
What to expect on the second day?
As soon as the first day’s play ended, the question in the mind of cricket lovers is whether there will be a similar rain of wickets on the second day? If yes, then this Test match can become a three-day show. West Indies are still 123 runs behind and Australia’s bowling is strong – that is, the game is completely in balance.
Conclusion
This match being played in Barbados is reminding us of the old thrill of Test cricket – where every ball, every run and every wicket is important. 14 wickets falling in a day is a rarity in today’s times and is proof that Test cricket is still vibrant and exciting.
May 12, 2025