The West Indies fast bowlers continued their impressive form, leaving a strong mark on the second Test against Australia.
Head coach Daren Sammy expressed deep satisfaction and growing belief in his pace unit after they dismissed Australia for 286 on a rain-hit first day in Grenada.
The Windies had elected to bowl after winning the toss, and their pacers responded by claiming all ten Australian wickets.
This was the third instance in the ongoing series where the West Indies managed to restrict the top-ranked Australian side to a modest total, highlighting the increasing strength and impact of their fast bowling department.
Sammy appeared particularly pleased with the discipline and execution shown by his bowlers, attributing much of the success to meticulous planning and preparation. He noted that the bowlers had consistently challenged Australia’s top order, and their efforts were clearly producing results.
The head coach also credited bowling coach Ravi Rampaul for bringing about a positive cultural shift within the bowling group.
According to Sammy, the pacers had fully embraced the new approach, and this mindset change was now evident in their performances. He maintained that the current form of his bowlers meant they could challenge any batting line-up in the world, not just Australia’s.
Alzarri Joseph spearheaded the attack with a match-defining performance, taking four important wickets, including the dismissals of Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja. He was ably supported by Jayden Seales, who took 2 for 45, reflecting the strength and unity of the bowling attack.
Although Australia briefly gained some momentum after the lunch break, Sammy acknowledged that his team bounced back strongly in the following session by capturing five wickets. This comeback, he believed, balanced out the earlier lapse and reinforced the team’s fighting spirit.
Meanwhile, Australian all-rounder Beau Webster, who scored a resilient 60, admitted that the pitch was offering help to the bowlers, especially with the new ball during the morning session. He believed this would give his side opportunities to make a comeback.
With Australia bowled out for 286 and four days of play remaining, the West Indies are in a promising position, powered by a confident and cohesive pace attack that is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of their Test success.