By Eric Collymore
England is closing in on a commanding victory over the West Indies in the first test at Lord’s. Day two ended with the Windies struggling at 79 for six, trailing by 171 runs.
The day began with England resuming at an overnight score of 189 for three.
The host side advanced their total to 371, bolstered by contributions from Joe Root, who scored 68, Harry Brook with 50, and Jamie Smith, who added 70 runs.
For the West Indies, Jaden Seales was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets, while Jason Holder and Gudakesh Motie each took two wickets.
Trailing by 250 runs at the start of their second innings, the West Indies batting lineup faltered once again.
They lost two early wickets within the first 12 overs, with only 18 runs on the board.
Captain Kraigg Brathwaite managed just four runs before being dismissed, and Kirk McKenzie was out for a duck.
The collapse continued as Mikyle Louis was dismissed for 14 in the 18th over, leaving the score at 32 for three.
Kavem Hodge soon followed, scoring only four runs, pushing the team into deeper trouble at 37 for four.
England’s bowlers maintained pressure, with James Anderson, Gus Atkinson, and Ben Stokes each taking two wickets.
This included key dismissals of Jason Holder and Alick Athanaze, who scored 20 and 22 runs respectively.
At the close of play on day two, the West Indies were reeling at 79 for six.
With England firmly in control, the first test is expected to conclude within three days, barring a significant turnaround from the West Indies.