West Indies pacer Jayden Seales delivered a masterclass in economy and precision during Day 2 of the second Test against Bangladesh, etching his name alongside cricketing legends. Seales claimed four wickets for just five runs in 15.5 overs, with a remarkable 10 maidens, setting a record for the most economical bowling figures in a Test innings since 1977.
This extraordinary feat places Seales’ performance among the best in Test cricket history. His economy rate is the seventh-best of all time, with the only West Indian surpassing him being the legendary Garry Sobers. Sobers recorded an economy of 0.21 in a 14-over spell against New Zealand in 1956, with 11 maidens and one wicket. The all-time best figures belong to India’s Bapu Nadkarni, who famously bowled 32 overs with 27 maidens and conceded just five runs against England in Chennai in 1964.
West Indies Take Control at Sabina Park
After dismissing Bangladesh for 164, the West Indies ended Day 2 in a commanding position, trailing by just 94 runs at 70/1. Captain Kraigg Brathwaite remained unbeaten on 33, with Keacy Carty supporting him on 19. Bangladesh’s only breakthrough came when Nahid Rana dismissed Mikyle Louis, who edged behind for 13.
The day began with Bangladesh resuming their innings at 69/2. Despite a 73-run stand for the third wicket between Shadman Islam and Shahadat Hossain, the visitors faltered under the relentless West Indies attack. Shamar Joseph broke the partnership by bowling Shahadat for 22, triggering a collapse.
Shadman Islam provided some resistance with a top score of 64, featuring five boundaries and a six, but his dismissal by Seales for 98/6 marked the turning point. Bangladesh skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz added a valuable 36 off 75 balls, and Taijul Islam contributed 16 from 66 deliveries, adding 41 runs for the seventh wicket. However, the lower order could not hold off the West Indies bowlers, and the innings folded in the afternoon.
In reply, the West Indies adopted a cautious approach, reaching tea at 16/0 in 10 overs and steadily building their lead by stumps.
A Bowling Spell to Remember
Seales’ exceptional spell not only cemented his place in the record books but also provided a significant boost to the West Indies’ bid for a series sweep. With figures reminiscent of cricket’s greatest bowlers, the young pacer has added a remarkable chapter to his career, giving fans and cricket historians plenty to celebrate.
