Sri Lanka takes a 142-run lead against West Indies on Day 4 of the 2nd Test in North Sound, despite a brilliant 180 from Justin Greaves and 112 from Shai Hope.
Introduction:
An enthralling fourth day of cricket at North Sound saw Sri Lanka wrestle away the momentum to take a commanding 142-run lead over the West Indies. The visitors used a clinical final session to wrap up the host nation’s first innings before building on their advantage. By stumps on Day 4, Sri Lanka reached 92 for the loss of two wickets in their second innings, firmly putting themselves in the driver’s seat for a thrilling final day. See also:Â Abhishek Sharma Smashes Fastest T20I Fifty in England
Greaves and Hope Fight Back in Style
Earlier in the day, the West Indies resumed their innings under immense pressure, chasing Sri Lanka’s massive first-innings total of 549 for 9 declared. Overnight batsmen Justin Greaves and Shai Hope looked determined to dig in. The duo put on a spectacular exhibition of defensive technique and crisp strokeplay, frustrating the Sri Lankan bowling attack for hours.
Greaves and Hope extended their magnificent fifth-wicket partnership to a staggering 242 runs. Shai Hope batted beautifully for his 112, showing class and composure against both pace and spin. However, it was Justin Greaves who stole the show. He compiled a monumental 180 runs, anchoring the entire West Indian reply. Alongside opener John Campbell’s elegant 72 at the top of the order, these heavy contributions kept the hosts neck-and-neck with the visitors.
Sri Lanka Breakthrough After Tea
Despite the heroic resistance from Greaves and Hope, Sri Lanka found their spark in the latter half of the second session. The turning point arrived when the breakthrough finally came, allowing the visitors to expose the West Indies’ lower order.
Lankan fast bowler, Asitha Fernando, led the bowling attack with absolute aggression, finishing with excellent figures of 5 for 130 to claim a well-deserved five-wicket haul. Spinner Prabath Jayasuriya provided brilliant support from the other end, using his flight and turn to pick up 3 for 131. The Sri Lankan bowlers ran through the final two West Indies wickets quickly after the tea break, bowling the hosts out for 499. This superb bowling effort secured a precious 50-run first-innings lead for Sri Lanka.
Consolidated Lead Ahead of the Final Day
With a 50-run cushion in their pockets, Sri Lanka walked out to bat for their second innings with clear intent. Although they lost two early wickets to a disciplined West Indian bowling attack, veterans Dinesh Chandimal and Kamindu Mendis steadied the ship perfectly before the close of play.
Chandimal remained unbeaten on 40, looking compact and secure, while the in-form Kamindu Mendis contributed a solid 30 not out. Together, they put on an unbeaten partnership to guide Sri Lanka to 92 for 2 at stumps. Their sensible batting expanded Sri Lanka’s total lead to 142 runs, setting up a fascinating tactical battle for Day 5 where Sri Lanka will look to set a target and push for a famous victory.
