Bangladesh’s only practice match on their West Indies tour ended in a draw after rain delayed the second day by four-and-a-half hours. Despite the interruptions, the visitors put up a commendable performance, particularly with the ball, reducing the West Indies Select XI to 87 for 9 in Coolidge.
Rookie left-arm spinner Hasan Murad stole the spotlight with a hat-trick, dismissing Daniel Beckford, Navin Bidaisee, and Chaim Holder in consecutive deliveries. Following the hat-trick, Bangladesh coach Phil Simmons signalled the end of the match.
Bangladesh’s bowlers enjoyed a productive outing, with Hasan Mahmud and Taskin Ahmed each taking two wickets. Mahmud’s dismissal of West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite on the first evening could serve as a confidence booster ahead of the first Test in Antigua, starting Friday.
Earlier, Bangladesh declared their first innings at 253 for 7 after batting 73.2 overs. Jaker Ali and Mahidul Islam retired after scoring 48 and 41, respectively. Litton Das, returning after missing the second Test against South Africa due to illness, and Mominul Haque both contributed 31.
However, the visitors continue to face concerns with their opening pair, as Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Zakir Hasan were dismissed cheaply.
For the hosts, Jair McAllister and Chaim Holder claimed two wickets each, while Kimani Melius top-scored with 23 in their innings.
Bangladesh will now shift focus to the Test series against West Indies, hoping to build on the positives from this match.
Match Summary:
Bangladesh: 253 for 7 declared (Jaker 48, Mahidul 41, Litton 31; Holder 2-48)
West Indies Select XI: 87 for 9 (Melius 23; Murad 3-1, Mahmud 2-15)
Result: Match drawn.