WI vs AUS 1st Test 2025: The opening Test of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle between West Indies and Australia at the iconic Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, has reached an exciting phase at the end of Day 2, with West Indies securing a slender yet crucial 10-run lead over the visitors. After bowling out Australia for just 180, the hosts managed 190 in reply, showcasing resilience against a fiery Australian bowling attack.
By lunch on Day 3, West Indies were 135/5 in their second innings, with Shai Hope and Roston Chase once again leading the resistance. Australia still lead by 45 runs, but the match remains finely poised.
Jaden Seales, Shamar Joseph Shine with the Ball
Australia’s first innings collapse was largely due to a sensational display of pace bowling by West Indies’ young guns. Jaden Seales led the charge, picking up a brilliant 5-wicket haul (5/60 in 15.5 overs), while Shamar Joseph backed him up with 4 wickets, tearing through Australia’s top and middle order.
Australia had a disastrous start, losing their first three wickets for just 22 runs, with openers and Cameron Green departing early. Travis Head, however, staged a brief comeback with a fighting 59, while Usman Khawaja contributed a slow but important 47. Captain Pat Cummins added 28 quick runs, but the rest of the lineup fell short, with no other batter reaching double digits.
The Aussies were bowled out for just 180, failing to put up a competitive first-innings total.
West Indies Counter Strong Australian Attack
In reply, West Indies also found themselves in trouble early, slipping to 53/4 as Australia’s seamers struck in quick succession. However, Shai Hope (48) and skipper Roston Chase (44) stitched together a vital partnership to stabilise the innings.
Lower down the order, Alzarri Joseph added a handy 23 runs, helping West Indies reach 190, just enough to take a 10-run lead.
Australia’s bowlers were efficient and relentless. Mitchell Starc was the pick of the attack with 3 wickets, while Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood grabbed 2 wickets each. Beau Webster, making an impact with the ball, also claimed 2 wickets, tightening the screws during the middle overs.
