West Indies bowl Australia out for 286 in Grenada

The West Indies asserted their dominance on the opening day of the second Test in Grenada, bowling Australia out for 286 after a dramatic day that saw wickets tumble consistently, punctuated only by a resilient century partnership. Despite a promising fightback in the middle session, the Australian batting line-up ultimately succumbed to the relentless pressure applied by the home side's bowlers, leaving the tourists with a sub-par total heading into day two.

Australia's innings began shakily, with the top order struggling to cope with the early movement and disciplined lines from the West Indies pacers. Wickets fell at regular intervals, putting the visitors in deep trouble and threatening an even lower total. However, Beau Webster and Alex Carey then orchestrated a superb recovery, forging a vital 100-plus run stand that not only stemmed the flow of wickets but also added significant runs to the scoreboard. Their partnership was a testament to their resolve and skill, as they weathered the storm and began to score freely, Webster displaying solid defence while Carey attacked with purpose, giving Australia's innings a much-needed backbone and hope of reaching a competitive total.

Just as Australia seemed to have found their footing, the West Indies bowlers struck again, breaking the crucial partnership and triggering another collapse. Once Webster and Carey were dismissed, the remaining wickets fell in quick succession, with the lower order unable to replicate the resistance shown by the centurions. The West Indies pacers, supported by their spinners, maintained their intensity throughout the day, exploiting the conditions and consistently finding breakthroughs. Their disciplined performance ensured that Australia never truly recovered from their early struggles, ultimately wrapping up the innings before the close of play.

This commanding bowling performance puts the West Indies in a strong position, as they will look to build a significant first-innings lead on day two and press home their advantage. Australia, meanwhile, will need their bowlers to respond with equal fire and precision to claw their way back into the contest and prevent the home side from running away with the match in what promises to be a gripping second day of Test cricket.