The opening Test between West Indies and Australia at the historic Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, has already delivered some memorable moments, keeping cricket fans thoroughly engaged. As part of Australia’s 2025 tour of the West Indies, the match has been a showcase of both grit and flair.
One of the standout moments came from Shai Hope, who produced a breathtaking cover drive off Mitchell Starc. The elegant shot drew applause from the crowd and was a reminder of Hope’s refined technique and elegance in red-ball cricket.
West Indies resumed Day 2 on a precarious 57 for 4 but made steady progress in the morning session, adding 78 runs for the loss of just one wicket. The moment of the session came during the 28th over when Hope unfurled a picture-perfect cover drive off Starc.
It was a full delivery angled at the off stump, and Hope met it with a confident stride forward, presenting the full face of the bat to pierce the covers for a boundary. It was a stroke that embodied poise, timing, and classical Test-match batting.
Following Brandon King’s early dismissal, the rebuilding job was ably undertaken by captain Roston Chase and Hope. The duo stitched together a vital 63-run stand that helped lift the home side out of trouble. At the time of writing, Chase was nearing his half-century on 44, while Hope remained unbeaten on 31, playing with caution and class. Their partnership built on the foundation laid late on Day 1 by Keacy Carty and Brandon King, who helped stabilize the innings after the early dismissals of both openers at just 16 runs.
Australia, meanwhile, faced a challenging second day in the field after a disappointing Day 1 with the bat, where they managed just 180 runs. While the bowlers showed early promise by denting the West Indies top and middle order, the resistance shown by Chase and Hope has put pressure back on the visitors. The momentum, for now, seems to have shifted toward the hosts as they eye a first-innings lead.
Shai Hope cover drive. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/G7ds5DeWgx
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 26, 2025
Despite the pressure, Australia’s pace attack continues to fight hard. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood have taken two wickets apiece, and skipper Pat Cummins chipped in with the crucial scalp of Carty. As the game progresses, the Aussies—last cycle’s WTC runners-up—will be eager to regain control quickly. However, with Hope’s graceful strokes and Chase’s resilience, West Indies have given themselves a solid platform to challenge the visitors further.