Fiery West Indies Pacers, Contentious Umpiring Dominate Day 2 vs. Australia in Barbados Test

West Indies' Pacers and Contentious Umpiring Decisions Dominate Day 2 Against Australia

Bridgetown, Barbados – The West Indies' dynamic pace attack once again rattled Australia's batting lineup, leaving the tourists struggling at 92 for four at the close of play on Day 2 of the first Test at Kensington Oval.

Following their first innings total of 190, just 10 runs behind Australia's 180, the West Indies maintained relentless pressure. The match hangs in the balance with Australia holding a slender lead of 82 runs and six wickets remaining, setting the stage for a potentially thrilling third day.

Day 2 was filled with action, witnessing 10 wickets fall after the initial 14 on the opening day. However, much of the attention centered on controversial decisions made by the third umpire, leaving the West Indies team visibly frustrated.

Travis Head, known for his aggressive batting style, will resume Day 3 alongside all-rounder Beau Webster. Each of the four West Indian bowlers managed to take a wicket in Australia's second innings, keeping their team firmly in contention.

Alzarri Joseph made a crucial breakthrough in the final session, dismissing Usman Khawaja lbw, after going wicketless in the first innings. Shamar Joseph, who impressed on Day 1, experienced a frustrating moment when Sam Konstas was dropped twice in the same over in the slips. However, his persistence paid off when Konstas played the ball onto his stumps.

Jayden Seales, who claimed five wickets in the first innings, continued his form by bowling Josh Inglis.

Australia's experiment with Cameron Green at number three backfired. He edged a delivery from Justin Greaves to first slip, departing cheaply.

Earlier, a 67-run partnership between West Indies captain Roston Chase and wicketkeeper Shai Hope stabilized the innings after a shaky start that saw them slump to 72 for five in the morning session. Debutant Brandon King, who contributed 26, was bowled by Josh Hazlewood.

Controversial Dismissals Spark Debate

Controversy ignited shortly after lunch when Roston Chase was given out lbw to Pat Cummins. Replays suggested that Chase had edged the ball onto his pads, yet television umpire Adrian Holdstock made the call against him.

Holdstock was again under scrutiny when Shai Hope, on 48, was adjudged caught down the leg side by a diving Alex Carey, giving Webster his second wicket. Replays suggested the ball may have touched the ground as Carey completed the catch, but Holdstock upheld the decision.

Alzarri Joseph added an unbeaten 23, but the West Indies innings soon concluded. Mitchell Starc was Australia’s most successful bowler with figures of 3 for 65.

Commenting on the disputed dismissals, Starc stated, "We can only ask the questions."

"That's what we have the technology for. The questions have to be asked in that direction, not at the players."

Reflecting on the match situation, Starc noted the pitch was keeping things competitive.

"Throughout the two days it's shown that if you bowl in the right areas there are enough chances (created)," he said.

"Even when the ball got older or was changed it still did some sideways stuff so the bowlers have been in the game throughout so far and that is likely to continue tomorrow."