Quote:How could anyone not be hugely impressed by Chase. This might only be his second Test but the Barbadian has already made a huge mark. The last player to take five wickets and score a century for the West Indies was the incomparable Garfield Sobers in 1966.
Especially instructive of Chase’s quality as a batsman was his play through the leg side. Whether against pace or spin the 24-year-old exhibited extraordinary balance and startling wristwork, playing through the onside in a manner that should be the envy of his more senior colleagues. If he was troubled by the short-pitched attack he stuck to the task, rode out the storm and at times played the pull shot with authority and precision.
But if Chase was the main attraction there was also excellent work done by the three co-stars. Blackwood was there with him at the beginning of play, as forceful and as adventurous as ever. The Jamaican struck a run-a-ball 62 in the first innings and continued with the same kind of approach in the second. Never reluctant to go the aerial route he was insistent in hitting straight, judiciously allowing himself a high chance of making proper and telling contact. His successful assault was valuable in setting the tone for the day and must have signaled to his colleagues that there was little to fear, and that the confident, positive method was the path to take.
Blackwood came into this game with something of a sword dangling over his head. His recent form was abysmal and the selectors could not have been faulted had they chosen to separate the batsman from his Test spot. Kudos to them for keeping faith with someone who showed real ability in the past but was going through some very tough times.
The Sabina Park Fight Back
