Antigua, Nov 25 (V7N) — The West Indies maintained control on the third day of the Antigua Test, despite Bangladesh narrowly avoiding a follow-on through the resilience of Mominul Haque and Zaker Ali. At stumps, the Tigers were 269 for 9, still trailing the hosts by 181 runs. With two days remaining, the visitors face a challenging task to stay in the game.

Bangladesh began the day at 40 for 2 but found themselves under pressure from the West Indies' pace trio of Alzarri Joseph, Anderson Phillip, and Justin Graves. Kemar Roach dealt an early blow, dismissing Shahadat Hossain for 18, leaving Bangladesh struggling to build a solid partnership.

Mominul Haque and Liton Das provided a glimmer of hope with a promising stand, but Justin Graves ended their efforts, dismissing Mominul. Liton’s failure to capitalise further left Bangladesh staring at the prospect of a follow-on.

However, Zaker Ali and Taijul Islam offered a lifeline with a gritty 68-run partnership. Zaker reached his second Test half-century, while Taijul contributed 25 runs. Joseph eventually broke their stand, and Zaker fell soon after for a valuable 53. Despite their efforts, Bangladesh’s scoreboard of 257 for 9 by stumps was less than reassuring.

With Taskin Ahmed unbeaten on 11 and Shariful Islam on 5, Bangladesh managed to avoid the follow-on but still have a mountain to climb, trailing by 181 runs. Play ended early due to poor light.

West Indies bowlers impressed, with Alzarri Joseph claiming three wickets, while Justin Graves and Anderson Phillip picked up two each. Earlier, the hosts declared their first innings at 450 for 9, powered by Graves’ brilliant 115-run century.

The Tigers now need a miraculous performance with the bat and ball over the remaining two days to avoid defeat.

END/RH/AJ