Justin Greaves produced a record-breaking spell to put West Indies in control against Pakistan on day three of the opening ICC World Test Championship Test in Trinidad. The all-rounder became the first bowler in recorded Test history to bowl five consecutive wicket maidens as Pakistan collapsed after a promising start.
Greaves claimed his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket during a devastating spell either side of lunch. His achievement surpassed the previous benchmark of four consecutive wicket maidens set by England fast bowler Stuart Broad against South Africa in Johannesburg in 2016.
Pakistan looked well placed at 244-3 after Shan Masood completed his century. Greaves changed the match by removing the former captain before dismissing Aamer Jamal, Ali Usman and Mohammad Rizwan in successive overs without conceding a run.
He struck again immediately after lunch when Mohammad Abbas edged behind, completing five consecutive wicket maidens. Pakistan lost seven wickets for just 38 runs and finished on 282 in reply to West Indies’ first-innings 311.
“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.
“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.”
Pakistan responded late in the day by reducing West Indies to 126-7 in their second innings. The hosts still held a lead of 155 runs at stumps, with Shamar Joseph unbeaten on 22 and Kemar Roach on five heading into the fourth day.
Greaves’ remarkable burst has given West Indies a strong chance to open their World Test Championship campaign with victory, while his place in the record books is already secure.
