Kavem Hodge hit a century as the West Indies fought back on day two of their second Test against England.
The 31-year-old is playing in just his fourth Test and was so close to walking for just 16 runs, but Joe Root’s dropped catch allowed the batsman to go on and lead the charge at Trent Bridge.
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Coming in on 84-3 in response to England’s 416 set on Thursday, Hodge added 120 before being dismissed via lbw to Chris Woakes.
Alick Athanaze was also impressive for the Windies, he hit 82 from 99 before being caught by Harry Brook.
The brilliant work of the batsmen leaves them on 351-5 ahead of day three.
It was England’s first outing in the field since the retirement of James Anderson and it was a hard day’s work as the sun blared down on the players.
Mark Wood provided the most entertainment for the crowd with his pacey 97mph bowling but had to leave the field before stumps in what could be a major concern for the hosts.
It was the first time in 12 years that England played a home Test without either Anderson and Stuart Broad and there was not too much that can be critiqued of the fielding performance.
STUMPS! 🕒
West Indies end the day on 351-5.
A terrific bounce back and strong performance with the bat, made even sweeter by a maiden century from Kavem Hodge 💪
Live reaction ⬇️#ENGVWI #BBCCRICKET
— Test Match Special (@bbctms) JULY 19, 2024
The West Indies rallied and showed the same spirit that saw them overcome Australia back in January, ensuring this match is not over quite yet.
Windies star Hodge was delighted with the batting performance and says he is hoping to take England as far as possible in the second Test.
Speaking to the BBC, he said: “It’s been an amazing day. You always want to contribute, it was really good for the guys coming off Lord’s, coming back as a batting unit it’s always sweeter from behind.
“We’re in a good position, I think we want to keep grinding on, take it as deep as possible.”
England assistant coach Paul Collingwood was the first to praise Hodge and his team and admitted sometimes you have to just admit your opponent were too good.
He added: “It was a very hard-fought day. The West Indies put a decent partnership together, it was hard toil at times.
“We threw everything at the West Indies today, but sometimes they have the answers.”
