Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins was visibly frustrated during a tense interaction with an umpire on day two of the third Test against the West Indies. His ire stemmed from a run-out attempt that was not referred for review. The West Indies, after a disastrous batting performance, were dismissed for just 143 runs within 52.1 overs, a score barely above the equivalent of a full one-day international innings. At the close of their innings, the Australian side was trailing by 82 runs in Kingston.
During the Australian innings, as the West Indies struggled at 2-52, opening batsman John Campbell managed to score 36 before being dismissed by Scott Boland, who executed a brilliant delivery that caught the shoulder of Campbell’s bat, resulting in a catch at first slip. Campbell became the top scorer of an innings marked by a lack of contributions, as only two batsmen managed to score above 18 runs.
The Australian bowlers, led by Cummins and Boland, capitalised on West Indies’ poor shot selection and lack of composure. The decline accelerated alarmingly, with the home side losing their last eight wickets for just 85 runs, and notably their final five wickets for a mere 19 runs. This collapse was epitomised by Mikyle Louis’ reckless attempt at a wide ball, resulting in a clean bowled by Josh Hazlewood after failing to display any effective footwork.
Cummins’ heated exchange with umpire Nitin Menon involved a plea to review the run-out attempt, questioning why the decision was not considered further. Despite no Australian players appealing for the wicket, Cummins’ concerns highlighted the competitive tension of the match.
Boland had an impressive performance, finishing with figures of 3 for 34, demonstrating his capability after being included in the pace attack in place of off-spinner Nathan Lyon. Cummins also shone with figures of 2 for 24, supported by Hazlewood with 2 for 32 and Mitchell Starc, who contributed with a wicket of his own.
The day closed with Australia well positioned, and the West Indies’ dismal batting display has put them under significant pressure as they look to recover in the series.