Justin Greaves scripts history with five consecutive wicket maidens during WI vs PAK 1st Test
Port of Spain, July 28
West Indies' Justin Greaves scripted history on Monday by becoming the first bowler in Test cricket, since comprehensive records became available, to register five consecutive wicket maidens.
Greaves achieved the feat during a match-changing spell either side of lunch on the third day of the first ICC World Test Championship Test against Pakistan in Trinidad, where he tore through the visitors' batting line-up, according to the ICC.
The spell also marked Greaves' maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket. He surpassed the previous record of four successive wicket maidens, registered by former England fast bowler Stuart Broad against South Africa in Johannesburg in January 2016.
Greaves said he kept his approach simple during the spell, following the advice of West Indies captain Roston Chase to bowl consistently in the right areas and trust the process.
"When I came on captain Roston Chase just said 'continue to be disciplined in what you are doing' and to see if I can get some wickets for the team," Greaves said, as quoted by ICC.
The ball nipped around and I got some reward. Anytime I get the ball in hand the team looks to me to be that solid player for them (and) try to dig us out of situations. To get five wickets for the first time in Test cricket, I'm really happy, but there's still a lot of work to do in the game," he added.
Pakistan appeared to be in a strong position to build a sizeable first-innings lead after reaching 244/3, with Shan Masood having completed his century. However, Greaves dismissed the former Pakistan captain to trigger a dramatic collapse.
The West Indies all-rounder then removed Aamer Jamal, Ali Usman and Mohammad Rizwan in successive overs without conceding a run, leaving Pakistan struggling at 267/8 at lunch in reply to the hosts' first-innings total of 311.
Greaves continued his impressive spell after the break, having Mohammad Abbas caught behind in his opening over to complete five consecutive wicket maidens. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 282 following a superb display of seam bowling from the experienced right-armer.
However, Pakistan hit back before the close of play, reducing the West Indies to 126/7 and limiting their overall lead to 155. Shamar Joseph, unbeaten on 22, and Kemar Roach, on five, will resume batting on the fourth day.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, I'm more impressed by how Pakistan threw away a strong position. 244/3 with Masood at the crease and they end up 282 all out? That's a mental collapse more than anything. Greaves bowled well but credit to the pitch too – it was clearly helping seamers. West Indies still only lead by 155 though, game is far from over. Typical Test cricket drama!
As an Indian cricket fan, I love watching West Indies produce such brilliant bowling spells. Greaves has that old-school West Indian spirit – disciplined, aggressive, and never giving up. Breaking Stuart Broad's record is no small feat. But I must say, Pakistan's batting mindset needs serious work. You can't lose 7 wickets for 38 runs in Test cricket and call yourself a strong side. 🇮🇳🏏
Great achievement no doubt, but let's not get carried away. The West Indies are still struggling at 126/7 in the second innings. One good spell doesn't win matches. Greaves should focus on contributing with the bat too – as an all-rounder, he's expected to do more. The lead of 155 is modest and Pakistan's bowlers have shown they can fight back. Match is evenly poised, proper Test cricket!
Five consecutive wicket maidens – that's pure poetry in motion! Just imagine the pressure Greaves built, not giving away a single run while taking wickets. This is the kind of bowling that makes Test cricket so special. No other format allows such spells of sustained brilliance. I hope young Indian bowlers are watching and learning from this discipline. Well done, Justin! 🙌
S We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.