West Indies Take Firm Control of Sylhet Test Despite Bangladesh’s Early Fightback

Bangladesh endured a frustrating fourth day in the Sylhet Test as the West Indies strengthened their grip on the match, finishing the day on 345 for 3 and extending their overall lead to 315 runs.

Resuming the innings at 7 without loss after securing a 30-run first-innings deficit, the Caribbean batters dominated proceedings with an aggressive approach that largely neutralised Bangladesh’s bowling attack.

The visitors’ opening pair made a strong start, putting together an 85-run partnership and quickly erasing Bangladesh’s advantage. While Bangladesh’s pace bowlers had troubled the West Indies with pace and swing in the first innings, the tourists appeared far more comfortable in the second innings.

Bangladesh finally made the breakthrough through Taijul Islam, who trapped Joshua Da Silva leg-before wicket for 36 runs. However, by that stage, the West Indies had already built a 55-run lead.

Despite losing his opening partner, Brandon King continued to attack and went on to register the sixth Test fifty of his career. He added another valuable partnership before Mehidy Hasan Miraz provided Bangladesh with a second breakthrough.

King was dismissed for 61, edging a defensive shot to Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto at slip, ending a promising 34-run stand.

The biggest damage, however, came through a commanding third-wicket partnership between Kavem Hodge and Kevlon Wickham. The pair added 155 runs, steadily increasing the West Indies’ lead and placing Bangladesh under sustained pressure throughout the afternoon session.

Wickham played an impressive innings of 78 before Taijul returned to bowl him, claiming his second wicket of the day.

From there, Bangladesh failed to make further inroads. Hodge continued to dominate the bowling attack and reached a well-deserved century, while Aamir Jangoo provided solid support at the other end.

The pair put together an unbeaten 61-run partnership to take the visitors safely to stumps.

At the close of play:

West Indies: 345/3
Lead: 315 runs
Kavem Hodge: 140*
Aamir Jangoo: 20*

For Bangladesh, Taijul Islam was the most successful bowler with two wickets, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz claimed the other dismissal.

With one day remaining, Bangladesh face a difficult challenge to fight their way back into the contest as the West Indies move into a commanding position.