West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves achieved a historic milestone on Monday during the first ICC World Test Championship Test against Pakistan in Trinidad. Greaves became the first bowler in Test cricket to record five consecutive wicket maidens since comprehensive records became available. This significant feat occurred during an enthralling third day of the match.
Greaves’ game-changing spell, delivered across the lunch break, saw him dismantle Pakistan’s batting order. This performance marked his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket, surpassing the previous record of four consecutive wicket maidens set by former England fast bowler Stuart Broad against South Africa in Johannesburg in January 2016.
Reflecting on his achievement, Greaves stated that he maintained a simple approach, following the guidance of West Indies skipper Roston Chase. Chase had advised him to remain disciplined and bowl in good areas to secure wickets for the team. Greaves noted that the ball was nipping around, which helped him gain rewards for his efforts.
Greaves expressed his satisfaction with his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket, while also acknowledging that there was still considerable work to be done in the match. He highlighted that his team relies on him to be a solid performer and to help them recover from challenging situations whenever he has the ball in hand.
Pakistan’s innings and Greaves’ impact
Before Greaves’ impactful spell, Pakistan appeared to be building a strong lead in their first innings, having reached a comfortable position of 244/3. Former captain Shan Masood had just completed his century, indicating a solid foundation for the visitors.
However, Greaves initiated a collapse by dismissing Shan Masood. Following this crucial wicket, he proceeded to remove Aamer Jamal, Ali Usman, and Mohammad Rizwan in successive overs without conceding any runs. This devastating spell left Pakistan struggling at 267/8 by lunch, facing significant trouble in response to the West Indies’ first innings total of 311.
After the lunch break, Greaves continued his exceptional performance, having Mohammad Abbas caught behind in his very first over. This wicket completed his five consecutive wicket maidens. Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 282, largely due to the inspired seam bowling from the experienced right-armer.
Match progression and series schedule
On Day 2, Pakistan had ended in a strong position, reaching 199/3 in response to the West Indies’ first innings total of 311. Shan Masood, making a return after stepping down from the captaincy, played a crucial role with an unbeaten 88. He was supported by Imam-ul-Haq, who scored 63, as the pair formed a significant 155-run partnership.
Earlier in the match, West Indies were bowled out for 311 after resuming Day 2 at 194/3. Shai Hope was the top scorer with 92, while Kavem Hodge contributed 84. Mohammad Ali took four wickets for Pakistan, and Mohammad Abbas claimed three, making an immediate impact with the second new ball. Khurram Shahzad also secured an early wicket, helping Pakistan wrap up the innings.
Despite Greaves’ heroics, Pakistan managed to fight back before stumps on Day 3, reducing the hosts to 126/7. This gave West Indies an overall lead of 155 runs, with Shamar Joseph (22*) and Kemar Roach (5*) remaining at the crease ahead of the fourth day. The first Test is scheduled from July 25-29 in Tarouba, with the second Test set for August 2-6 in Port of Spain.
Source: icc-cricket.com
