WI in command after Chanderpaul’s 203*

Tamim hits back but Bangladesh trail by 363 runs in opening Test.

DHAKA: Shivnarine Chanderpaul hit his second Test double century to help the West Indies declare their first innings at 527 for four on the second day of the first Test against Bangladesh yesterday.

The 38-year-old left-hander batted with composure to equal his highest Test score of 203 not out as the touring batsmen dominated a hapless Bangladesh bowling attack before captain Darren Sammy declared at the tea break. Denesh Ramdin ably supported his partner as the pair added 296 for the fifth wicket stand — a new record in all West Indies-Bangladesh series.

The hosts responded in typically aggressive manner and lost three wickets to leave them on 164 for three at close.

Tamim Iqbal, who led the Bangladesh attack, was the last man out, caught by Sunil Narine at mid-on off Darren Sammy for 72 from 71 balls. The hosts still need 164 runs to avoid the follow on.

“If you noticed, I didn’t score too many Test 200s,” said Chanderpaul. “I only had one before this game, so it is always pleasing to get past that landmark.”

Published in The Express Tribune, November 15^th, 2012.