Test in the balance

CAPTAIN Michael Clarke stroked a half-century to stabilize Australia but West Indies bowlers made crucial strikes at key junctures, to hold a slight advantage on the third day of the opening Test at Kensington Oval on Monday.
Clarke, who missed the preceding one-day series as he recovered from injury, hit 73 as Australia reached 248 for five, in response to West Indies’ 449 for nine declared.
His knock helped to steady the Aussies who wobbled in the morning session thanks to an outstanding spell from captain Darren Sammy (2-33) which handed West Indies the early advantage.
In a 10-over spell from the northern end that cost just 14 runs, Sammy prised out both openers David Warner (42) and Ed Cowan (14), before former captain Ricky Ponting was run out for four in a horrible mix up over a second run with Shane Watson, as Australia slipped to 84 for three after resuming the day at 44 without loss.
However, Clarke anchored two important partnerships which helped the Aussies out of their predicament.
Clarke, however, was fortunate to remain at the crease after he was given out caught behind by umpire Tony Hill off leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo when 21.
The batsman immediately referred the decision, which was eventually overturned, though several television replays produced no conclusive evidence that would have led to the original verdict being reversed.
Please see full story in Tuesday’s DAILY NATION.