West Indies Declare Innings at 450/9, Bangladesh Struggles at 40/2 on Day 2

West Indies declared their innings at 450/9 after posting a massive total, leaving Bangladesh with a daunting task. After a strong batting performance, including a century from Justin Greaves, West Indies dominated the second day of the Antigua Test.

At the start of Bangladesh's second innings, the team faced immediate difficulties, losing both openers early. Zakir Hasan was bowled out for 15 by Jaden Seales, and Mahmudul Hasan Joy followed shortly after, dismissed by Alzarri Joseph for just 5 runs. Joy, who had been dropped earlier, was caught at second slip off Joseph’s next over.

After the loss of two quick wickets for just 21 runs, Bangladesh's position was precarious. Mominul Haque and Shahadat Hossain Dipu tried to steady the ship, forming a 19-run partnership to carry Bangladesh forward. At the close of Day 2, Bangladesh was 40/2, still trailing by 410 runs, with Mominul on 7 off 23 balls and Shahadat on 10 off 31 balls.

West Indies had dominated the first day, with both Micahel Lewis and Alik Athanaze falling just short of centuries. On Day 2, Greaves seized the opportunity to score his maiden Test century, finishing with an unbeaten 115 runs. This was the highest total for the West Indies on home soil since 2014.

Bangladesh's bowlers had some success early in the day, with Hassan Mahmud striking twice in quick succession to leave West Indies on 261/7. However, Justin Greaves and Kemar Roach combined for a record-breaking eighth-wicket partnership of 140 runs, with Roach contributing a career-best 47 runs. Despite a few setbacks, Greaves led West Indies to 450 runs before they declared.

Hassan Mahmud was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, claiming 3 wickets for 87 runs from 27 overs. Taskin Ahmed and Mehedi Hasan Miraz each took two wickets, while Taijul Islam bowled 38 overs, conceding 111 runs and picking up 1 wicket. However, Shoriful Islam went wicketless.

As Bangladesh faces a steep challenge, they will need to recover quickly to avoid a heavy defeat, with the current deficit standing at 410 runs.