Keshav Maharaj's disciplined spin bowling proved crucial for South Africa as he claimed three key wickets, limiting the West Indies to 145-4 on a challenging third day of the rain-affected first Test at Queen's Park Oval. The West Indies, in response to South Africa's first innings total of 357, struggled to build momentum as Maharaj's probing figures of 3-45 from 28 overs kept them in check.

On a slow, testing surface, Maharaj dismissed Mikyle Louis, debutant Keacy Carty, and Alick Athanaze, applying pressure with his variations in flight and pace. Despite losing their captain Kraigg Brathwaite for 35 due to a run-out, the West Indies ended the day unsteadily but with hopes of a comeback resting on the unbeaten pair of Kavem Hodge and former captain Jason Holder.

Earlier, the hosts wrapped up the South African innings quickly in the morning session, with Jomel Warrican and Jayden Seales taking the last two wickets for just 13 additional runs. As the match heads into the fourth day, South Africa holds the upper hand, but the West Indies' resilience in their middle order could still set up an intriguing contest.