West Indies Captain Reflects on Missed Opportunities in Second Test Against South Africa

West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite acknowledged the team's shortcomings with the bat in the first innings against South Africa in the second Test at Providence Stadium, Guyana. Despite bowling South Africa out for 160, the Caribbean side could only manage 144 in reply and ultimately lost by 40 runs.

West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite has admitted that his team's batting performance 'fell short' in the first innings against South Africa during the second Test at Providence Stadium, Guyana. This admission came after the Proteas capitalized on their chances to secure a narrow victory.

While West Indies glimpsed moments of brilliance, they lacked consistency. Shamar Joseph's efforts reduced South Africa to 97/9, but Dane Piedt and Nandre Burger's 63-run partnership helped South Africa reach 160. In response, West Indies could only muster 144, conceding a 16-run lead.

Reflecting on the game, Brathwaite said, 'Bowling them out for 160 was satisfying, but we needed a bigger first-innings total to gain a lead. The bowlers performed admirably, but our batting effort wasn't enough, resulting in us falling short.' Despite the loss, positives included Shamar Joseph's return and Jayden Seales' impressive wicket-taking.

Highlighting the positives, Brathwaite praised Shamar's comeback and Seales becoming the highest wicket-taker for West Indies in the series. The captain also commended the performance of the two spinners, noting their economy rate of under three runs per over. Ultimately, South Africa's total of 246 runs in the second innings set a tough target that West Indies couldn't meet, leading to a 40-run defeat.

(With inputs from agencies.)