Mirpur Test: Windies Secure Eight-Wicket Win Over Bangladesh
The West Indies men's Test team produced a solid all-round display to beat Bangladesh by eight wickets in the first match of the two-Test series. The game took place at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka.
The victory drew praise from former West Indies cricketers, including Ian Bishop, who said the win was a major step forward for the region's cricket. Bishop, a legendary fast bowler, highlighted how difficult it has become to beat Bangladesh in their own conditions and credited the players for their commitment despite financial challenges.
In a message on X, Bishop said the team had done excellent work and that the upcoming second Test would be an important opportunity to build on this start. Former batter Darren Ganga also congratulated the side, saying the result extended the success the team enjoyed in India. He noted that the players were adapting well to the longer format alongside experienced red-ball specialists.
West Indies' current situation is shaped by financial uncertainty. Last month, Cricket West Indies outlined a financial restructuring plan that includes a 25 percent reduction in player salaries. Two upcoming competitions, the Super50 and the Women's T20 Blaze, have been postponed. Head coach Darren Sammy has urged his players to finish the World Test Championship cycle strongly, arguing that good results could help improve their position in talks with the board.
The chase in Mirpur was smooth. West Indies needed 170 runs and reached the target in 35.1 overs, with eight wickets remaining. Brandon King scored an unbeaten 81, while Kavem Hodge, batting at four, remained unbeaten on 31.
Spin was decisive throughout the match. Bangladesh's first innings total of 272 was built around Shadman Islam's 105. Left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican took five wickets. West Indies responded with 245, with fifties from John Campbell and Tagenarine Chanderpaul and contributions of 46 from Justin Greaves and 43 from Roston Chase. Off-spinner Naeem Hasan returned 4 for 33.
In the second innings, Bangladesh were dismissed for 142. Chase took 5 for 36, and Warrican added 4 for 63. West Indies then completed the chase for the loss of two wickets.