Sri Lanka's Massive First Innings Still Looms Over West Indies

Sri Lanka's imposing first‑innings score of 549 has set a formidable target for the touring West Indies in the second Test at Antigua. The hosts reached the total after losing nine wickets, with standout performances from Lahiru Udara (188), Kamindu Mendis (84) and Sonal Dinusha (92).

West Indies' reply began cautiously, losing early wickets but recovering through a 89‑run stand between Kevan Hodge and John Campbell. Amir Jangu, who scored twin centuries in the series opener, managed only nine runs before being dismissed.

The innings gained momentum when Shai Hop and Justin Graves stitched together a 174‑run partnership for the fifth wicket. Hop's 86 and Graves' 85 have brought the West Indian total to 318 for 4, still 231 runs behind.

Sri Lankan bowlers Asitha Fernando and Prabhat Jaisurya each claimed two wickets on day three, but the pressure now shifts to the West Indies bowlers as they aim to restrict Sri Lanka's second innings and force a result.