DHAKA, Feb 13, 2021 (BSS) – Despite experiencing an early batting collapse, West Indies will be looking forward to set a 400-run target for Bangladesh to win the second and final Test, which would determine the two-match series.
West Indies reached 41-3 in their second innings for a lead of 154 runs with seven wickets remaining. They gained a 113-run lead in the first innings after bowling out Bangladesh for 296 but Bangladesh spinners denied them taking the full control on day three, by bowling with tight line and length.
“I think we are slightly in the driver’s seat,” West Indies off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall said here today. “Tomorrow is an important day for us. We just have to bat well in the first hour. We have to be in a reasonable position at lunch so that we can set a reasonable target for Bangladesh. We can have a run at Bangladesh in the end (of the day). Anything over 400 will be comfortable for us,” he remarked.
Cornwall led West Indies charge on day three, claiming 5-75, his second five-for in the Test.
“It is always a good feeling to take five wickets. I helped put the team in a good position to win the team,” he said.
“Plan was to keep things simple, be patient and put the balls in the right area. I think the way our batsmen set up the game the day before, we knew that the bowlers had to do a good job today.
He rated Dhaka wicket more favourable for spinners than the one in Chattogram in which they claimed three-wicket win over Bangladesh, chasing a target of 395 runs.
“The wicket gave me some bounce, some of the ball spun. I just had to work with that,” he pointed out. “The ball bounces a bit more in Dhaka. There was not much bounce or spin in Chattogram. I got a bit more purchase here. I worked with what I get, with whatever pace I get out of the wicket, I use it as my strength.”
But Cornwall is not willing to take anything for granted as he said they need to ball well still despite the assistance of the wicket.
“I think they are good quality players. You still have to put the ball in the right areas, and stick to your gameplan, and see if the Bangladesh batsmen make mistakes,” he concluded.