Mayers makes 210 on debut as Windies seal remarkable win

DHAKA: Kyle Mayers made an unbeaten double hundred on his Test debut to help West Indies snatch an extraordinary three-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the first Test today. Hosts Bangladesh declared their second innings on 223/8, setting West Indies a daunting victory target of 395 in Chattogram, and the touring side completed the fifth-highest successful run chase in Test history. Mayers added 216 runs with Nkrumah Bonner (86) to turn the match on its head and took a single off spinner Nayeem Hasan to seal a fairytale victory for a second-string West Indies side led by Kraigg Brathwaite. Mayers, a 28-year-old left-handed batsman from Barbados, remained unbeaten on 210, including 20 fours and seven sixes, and became only the sixth player to score a double hundred in the fourth innings of a Test. “It’s a great feeling to be playing Test cricket,” Mayers, who averages about 29 in First-Class cricket, said after collecting the Man of the Match award. “Then to go on and score a century, and then to make it a double, and then going on to win this Test. A guy making his debut and making a double should inspire all youngsters to work hard and reach this level.” WI sent a weakened squad to Bangladesh after several players, including Test captain Jason Holder, opted out of the tour citing Covid-19 concerns. Reuters

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Rizwan’s maiden ton helps set big target

Rawalpindi: Mohammad Rizwan scored a first Test century as Pakistan set South Africa a daunting target of 370 to win the second and final Test, but the tourists closed the fourth day on 127/1 to set up an intriguing finale. Rizwan was unbeaten on 115 and batted brilliantly with the tail to help add 222 for the final five wickets as the home side were bowled out for 298 in their second innings, profiting from a number of dropped catches by the visitors. Aiden Markram (59 not out) and Rassie van der Dussen (48 not out) gave South Africa hope after adding 94 for the second wicket, showing the patience and application that will be needed on the final day if they are to claim an unlikely victory. South Africa have not made over 300 in the fourth innings to win a Test since their remarkable 414/4 against Australia in Perth in 2008, while the highest successful run chase ever in Pakistan is 315/9. Reuters