South Africa Takes Control in First Test Against West Indies Amid Weather Challenges

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (AP) — South Africa has positioned itself for a potential victory in the first test against the West Indies, leading by 154 runs after a rain-affected fourth day. The day began with six hours of play lost to rain, but South Africa managed to bowl out the West Indies for 233, securing a first-innings lead of 124 runs. The tourists added 30 runs before stumps, leaving them hopeful for a win if the weather permits play on the final day. The West Indies resumed their innings at 145-4 but struggled significantly, losing their last six wickets for just 60 runs. This collapse included a rapid sequence where four wickets fell for only 19 runs, leaving the hosts in a precarious position at 192-8. Keshav Maharaj was instrumental for South Africa, claiming his fourth wicket by dismissing Joshua Da Silva for just 1 run, caught by Tony de Zorzi. As the match progresses, the weather remains a critical factor, having disrupted play throughout the test. Only 15 overs were bowled on the first day, and rain has been a consistent issue. The West Indies entered this series on the back of a disappointing 3-0 defeat in England, with two of those tests concluding in under three days. Following this two-test series, the teams will compete in three T20 matches.